To the editor:
I was dismayed to read that Damariscotta’s new downtown restrooms will be “gendered” instead of unisex, as originally planned. Creating all-gender bathroom facilities puts a more positive, family-friendly image on our community. National retailers such as Target, T.J. Maxx, Walgreens, and Starbucks now provide unisex facilities for their customers. Some local businesses offer them as well, I’m sure.
Our many seasonal visitors, parents, children, and especially caregivers of people with physical limitations will appreciate the access as well – especially during the many public events that take place in downtown Damariscotta, when public facilities are limited at best. How many dads have had to deal with the dilemma of which bathroom to use when their little girl really, really needs to go (or vice versa, moms of little boys)?
This is not just a “transgender issue” in search of political correctness. We should be doing whatever we can to signal that Damariscotta is welcoming to all and respectful of their needs. Our new public bathrooms are a perfect place to begin.
Mal Gormley
Damariscotta
