Manchester United could become the first English Premier League soccer side to introduce gender neutral toilets after revealing details of the inclusive initiative at a recent fan forum.
According to a report by Sky Sports, Manchester United’s head of security, Jim Liggett, spoke about the club’s consideration of installing gender-neutral toilets at its home stadium Old Trafford as part of making the matchday experience welcoming to all and being accommodating to diversity.
“It’s something we are looking at as we are keen to ensure that Old Trafford continues to be welcoming and inclusive to all supporters; I will keep you posted regarding progress,” Liggett is quoted as saying at the fan event.
“Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is important in everything that we do and we’re constantly working with key stakeholders, including Stonewall, on such topics.”
In June 2018, the MCG in Melbourne, Australia, trialled gender-neutral toilets for the first time during an AFL match between St Kilda and Sydney that celebrated Pride and welcomed the LGBTIQ community to the match.
The male and female toilets were sign posted as being available for use by any gender that individuals identified as, and several disabled and baby-change toilets were also used as gender-neutral toilets.
Despite the trial receiving criticism from some fans on social media over safety fears, it ran smoothly. However, the MCG said it currently has no plans to roll it out further.
Pic: WikiCommons Andre Zahn
