I haven’t spent a lot of time focusing on the new Kansas City airport terminal. A lot of people went to see it, took photos and video, and it looks attractive (although entails somewhat longer walks to gates, so it isn’t entirely good).
The reason I shrug my shoulders a bit at the new Kansas City airport terminal, though, is because it’s Kansas City. You go there if you want barbecue that hides the quality of meat and the cooking technique with a thick tomato-based sauce.
Thirty years ago they were a US Air focus city with service to Baltimore; Charlotte; Washington National; Indianapolis; Wichita; Las Vegas; Los Angeles, New York LaGuardia; Orlando; Philadelphia; Pittsburgh; San Diego; Seattle and more – plus Air Midwest (USAir Express) service to more than a dozen cities.
But now if you’re Kansas City and want to be part of the national conversation, you make sure your new airport terminal has… gender-neutral bathrooms.
Look, if you want to trigger a culture war, send men and women to the same restroom (or claim that there are precisely 73 different genders). Bathrooms and gender are a hot button issue.
Runway Girl defends gender neutral restrooms as inclusive, although I’d point out that now the mom would bring that 10 year old boy into the women’s restroom if they’re somehow not yet mature enough to go on their own.
Not only do these all-gender restrooms provide a welcoming and inclusive space for all travellers, regardless of their gender identity or gender expression, they can make travel easier for, say, a mom who doesn’t want to send her 10-year-old son into a men’s restroom alone.
Urinals get replaced by more stalls, and the stalls themselves have higher partitions. And here’s the thing: there are also plenty of gender-specific restrooms, and crucially more restroom opportunities in total than there were in the old terminal.
Friendly reminder that if you don’t want to use one of the two multi-user all-gender restrooms in the new terminal at Kansas City International Airport, you don’t have to.
(There are 15 gender-specific restrooms I will gladly point you to if you can stop yelling for a second.) pic.twitter.com/FMBjI2vsN7
— Justin Meyer (@JustinMeyerKC) March 1, 2023
The airport acts as though they weren’t courting controversy in doing this. Kansas City was absolutely courting controversy, and that’s fine. Advocates see this as a giant own on their culture war opponents. The city of Kansas City has broadened the use of gender neutral restrooms since the airport was first planned with them.
(2/2) Here’s a sneak peek into the “All Gender Bathrooms” at the new KCI Terminal that will serve the Kansas City LGBTQ+ community: pic.twitter.com/CWmCY3t6k2
— LGBTQ Commission of Kansas City (@LGBTQCommission) September 15, 2022
On the one hand this ought to be something of a non-issue, and something some people will value. On the other I can understand why there are people who feel under attack. Each group though has different restrooms they can choose from at the new airport, but that won’t make Kansas City a US Air-turned-American Airlines focus city ever again. And it won’t help their barbecue live up to the hype or come close to what’s found in Central Texas.
My bathroom at home is unisex. When I use the airport rest room, I never see any man’s Oscar Meyer weiner. Therefore, unisex bathrooms are fine. If they want urinals, they can have a separate urinal area in the bathroom.
Speaking of courting controversy, you’re just dropping BBQ bombs on KC?
I’ve lived in KC for most of the last 22 years but I grew up in Texas and maintain that Texas has the edge in BBQ. Still, I think you’re over-stating the difference a bit there LOL.
Change is difficult but, once you get over it, you look back and think it wasn’t such a big deal after all. Same here – bring it on and I’ll adjust.
Sorry, you say you understand it, but I don’t – why would anybody feel “under attack” because of a restroom?
Not Lucky – some of the proponents, including one linked in the post, say it is an attack so I understand why it might be felt as one
This whole article was worth it for the KC BBQ bashing at the end.
It sounds like no one is being left out That’s a good thing. One of my sons is autistic and the other has Cerebral Palsy and uses a wheelchair. I have been known to take them in the women’s restroom with me. If there is a family restroom we use it.
There are handicapped/family restrooms, which are nearly always open to anyone of any gender (whether for identity reasons or any other). A large bathroom that is not gendered like the one in the photos is, in fact, very unusual (both in the United States and elsewhere around the world), uncomfortable for the huge majority of users, and not unreasonably seen as a waste of money to make a political point by voters, no? I mean, it explicitly was approved as a “signal of inclusivity” – nobody thinks that 1/8 of the bathroom users in Kansas City prefer using a bathroom that is neither gendered nor a single family/handicap room, surely?
With all due respect – what an idiotic headline which betrays your own biases. The terminal has not created controversy at all. Bigots and homophobic and transphobic individuals showed their ignorance and hatred. That is what happened. That is not “controversy”. That’s bigotry. Would you post a headline that says “Existence of Jewish People Cause Controversy” because of all of the anti-semites out there. You’re not that far off with your headline.
Haven’t these always existed as “Family” restrooms? Like what’s the difference? Are people just upset with the word gender neutral?
People who complain about this crap have a weird obsession with other people’s genitals. Why are they always thinking about them?
These are exactly the restroom arrangements (separate stalls with doors, common hand washing areas) in the newer senior and junior high schools where I sometimes substitute teach. And you know what? The kids have no problems with them. It’s the parents who might.
OMG, these are single stall bathrooms! In all cases single stall bathrooms should be unisex. This is simply more efficient. To claim this as a “victory” for any group is absurd.
Personally, I’m a fan of the unisex potties. More room in the stall. Private so I don’t have to hear other people’s drama on the can. This set up is common in other countries. I’m totally fine with it. And, for those who want to fuss, they last time I checked the shower facilities in the high-end airline lounges are all unisex and I don’t think I’ve heard anyone make a peep about that.
Among other positives, gender neutral bathrooms are efficient use of space.
One out of Three restaurants I go to anymore have restrooms that all use with a common sink area. Come out from under your rock – welcome to the new world. Try not to knock something unless you have actually been there – like KC! Great place – more than BBQ.
One thing I have noticed in the past was that there was a long line in the women’s restroom and none at the men’s. I noticed this at a concert I went to. I had to go and couldn’t wait so I went in the men’s. When I came out a man looked shocked and checked the sign on the door. I said you’re ok. It’s me that’s out of place. If there is a single toilet restroom marked men’s and the women’s is occupied or out of order I don’t mind going in. Anyway KC you got to go so I hope you enjoy the go at your new airport restroom.
Who is the victim Herr?
Seems like much to do about nothing
Fine if you want em
Don’t use if you don’t
Carry On
As mentioned above with someone talking about long lines for the woman’s room the problem with this is that by taking out urinals and using stalls it will slowdown the turnaround and now instead of just women having to wait in line men will also have to stand around in line waiting because the process will be that much slower when one of the reasons men can be quick is because they can simply use a urinal. Sure a man can stand up in a stall but I don’t have faith in people having good aim so get ready for plenty of urine covered toilets and floors women.
Joe’s burnt ends don’t come with sauce on them and they don’t need any. Likely one of the best things you’ll ever eat.
Texas use of mesquite is to coverup their inability to cook. Or have a proper football team?
Showing your bias on BBQ I see. And no mention of TWA. Come on you are better than that 🙂
from reading the comments it would seem not one person is offended by these family friendly restrooms. they serve everyone’s needs – and no one is forced into a restroom they don’t “agree with”
they’re more efficient. offer way more privacy. the only person who wants to turn these restrooms into a culture war in the author of this article.
it would appear only one person thinks these efficient and ingenious family friendly restrooms are controversial – the author of this article
I hope they are well ventilated. Nothing worse than having to enter a very enclosed stall like these if the air circulation is weak……warm, muggy, aromatic…….
I agree with Bill that stalls are less efficient for men and forsee many women mostly avoiding them due to the inevitable wet floors and seats
Most KC barbecue is served/offered without sauce. Try it next time then modify your rather obnoxious comment..
As long as the restroom layout is safe for women from predators. I can’t tell from the photos. Women and children will still have to stay aware of their surroundings to be safe.
Response to Android: We have all kinds of barbeque restaurants in Texas. And I might add they are good. They know how to cook. I like the mesquite flavor including the sauce. It adds to the good tasting meat our cooks prepare. You not only won the super bowl you have to rub it in that Texas didn’t. A Texas college came in 2nd in the ratings. Not too shabby among 24 others. Some of the high school teams did really well too. I’d say we have some “proper” teams. Hope for the future. The Chiefs have had their losses against Dallas before too.
It took a long time for a John to chime in. It’s time to get over being prudish about bodily functions. In several countries I’ve used “unisex” toilets for decades. It works. I’ve been in Men’s Rooms taken over by women who got tired of waiting in “their” line. They had to GO! Most importantly – the stalls have doors on them. Is there a controversy when we stand unseparated by gender in line at the Gas and GO, the bank, or the BBQ joint? “NEXT in line”. Let’s worry about important things – like, “Is there there paper in the stall?”
Texas BBQ all day every day. KC has way better football. Texas way better BBQ
You obviously have not been to LC’s in KC 🙁
Runway mom might have been worried more about her son potentially being accosted than his ability. Cheap shots all around for a great improvement in bathroom equality! 🙂
Reply to Matthew: Thanks for the comment on Texas barbeque. I looked up the stats on past super bowls. Kansas City won their first super bowl in 1970. It took them 50 years to win another one. Dallas has been in more super bowls, won more and won 2 back to back. Maybe the Cowboys are just taking a break like Kansas City did. We can’t be greedy. Someone else has to win sometime.
I’m waiting for Ron DeSantis to propose outlawing gender neutral bathrooms throughout the US. He’s trying to outlaw everything else that differs from what he considers to be the norm.
@Anon — It doesn’t need to be 1 in 8 that would **prefer** a unisex bathroom. Rather, so long as 1 in 8 either want it (it would cover some of the cases for family restrooms, but cheaper and smaller per user) or don’t give a hoot one way or the other it will work fine.
On a personal level I don’t give a hoot. At the level of society I think it’s more efficient.
@derek — I have seen wieners in a large men’s room but I can’t recall for certain if it was the airport. They had a long line of urinals against a wall and the stalls were behind that wall. Turn the corner and you’re looking along that wall from a very low angle. If there’s somebody there but nowhere near the corner you’ll see it.
The solution is simple enough–a separate urinal area.
I also think this is an excellent idea because in time people will see the world doesn’t fall apart.
Do we really, really, really care?
88% of the restrooms in the airport are separate men/women bathrooms. they offered a couple spaces the could be used by all sorts of people – families who don’t want to split up, families who have adult kids with special needs. no one was courting controversy. they were trying to build a better airport. but sure, go ahead and be butt hurt about it
Even if we take the bathroom question off the table, your article found multiple ways to insult Kansas City. That’s not “thought leadership in travel,” that’s just being an asshole
Hilarious. Every single time I’ve had to use a “neutral” restroom (the single hole-r variety), when exiting, if there is a woman waiting to get in, they always make a comment about not wanting to use a restroom after a man. Apparently we men have a problem with our aim and the ladies don’t appreciate it (because we’re not touching that nasty ass toilet seat to lift it). I just nod in approval and carry on.
Sadly, it’s Women being slowly erased from society – no segregated restrooms, no separate locker rooms, they can no longer fairly participate against other actual ladies in sports, candy companies using men with lipstick as their spokesmen for International Women’s day… pretty soon they won’t be able to vote, drive or leave home without a man… Wake up ladies.
Wow, what a snooty opinionated post from yet another travel “influencer”. First off, proper KC BBQ is not served smothered in sauce – obviously you are not trying very hard or only going to terrible restaurants if that’s how you’re eating it. I lived in KC for over 30 years and have family in Texas, both areas have good BBQ.
Second, what do you care if they have gender-neutral restrooms? How exactly is that placing anyone, in your words, “under attack”? It’s a more logical restroom design that’s been used for years in many parts of Europe – fully-enclosed toilet stalls and a shared sink area. Easier for parents with small kids and alleviates the horrible lines so common to women’s restrooms.
Just F.Y.I. Not that anyone would drive to the new airport just to eat (and pay $3.00 an hour to park),,,but you can’t get in to any of the places to eat at the new KCI (including BBQ) unless you are a ticketed passenger and have passed thru security to get to the gates.
Supposedly an article over the controversial (not really) open bathrooms (with private doors with locks, so really a bunch of single bathrooms in a big room). Really, just an article here to bash Kansas City. Nothing more, nothing less. My first and last article I’ll bother reading on this site if this is the kind of stories it provides.
Clearly the new airport is a big step over the old airport KC had. Yet, you had nothing better to do to try to bash everything about Kansas City, and try to make an issue over the bathrooms that aren’t an issue (as most airports in the US already do this).. Pathetic. Next time, just start your article with “I’m an asshole.” and end it there.
Not sure about ‘Air Midwest’ but MCI was the #2 city (after Milwaukee) for Midwest Express airlines. Is that what you meant Gary?
@TommyD – No, Air Midwest was a Mesa Air subsidiary which acted as an express carrier for several major airlines up through 2008
This isn’t truly a efficiency or restroom issue. Instead, it is just another sad, desperate effort from the “gender denier” community to try and hide gender difference and force their so called “inclusive “ (don’t you just hate that overworked word!) policies on the vast majority. Personally I appreciate the difference between men and women.
Besides, it is settled science: men have an x & Y chromosome. Women have two X chromosomes. That is fact and cannot be argued. And defines gender. Period.
So for the ignorant who don’t understand science, we’ll, learn to live with it.
This is a non issue and waste of time. Gender neutral bathrooms have been around for years especially in smaller establishments that cannot afford or do not have space for separate facilities. Let’s move on please. Stop trying to bake controversy where non exists
Reply to Kevin: there is an easy solution to both your issues: You and the women can take a paper towel or tissue and wipe off the seat and lift/lower it with those item/s. Maybe these men want to be women. I can’t blame them. We are a good gender. We make mistakes but so do men.
If the City of Ann Arbor, Michigan, managed the new gender-neutral toilets at the Kansas City Airport terminal and in other airports, passengers and flight crews would receive, by government mandate, complimentary access to menstrual and sanitary products, including pads, tampons, toilet paper, soap, paper towels, and water.
Read more: https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2021/11/18/ann-arbor-ordinance-tampons-pads-all-public-bathrooms/8652533002/
What a dumb article that tries to create a narrative that doesn’t exist. What controversy are you talking about? It doesn’t exist.
The two ladies in my house make more of a mess on the toilet than I do. Glad there are more options, but I’ll stick to my men’s room thank you very much.
I live in Sweden – which isn’t exactly a conservative safe haven – and I don’t feel comfortable in these ”gender neutral” stalls. I just asked my wife how she felt, and she reacted the same way.
@ Gary — I’m not sure why anyone cares?? The BBC has Naked Attraction, while Americans whine about unisex bathrooms.