Our Non-Discrimination Statement
In order to maintain member status in the National Council of YMCAs all YMCA associations like ours must adhere to the YMCA of the USA Constitution, Article II, Section 2g stating that a Y must annually certify that the member association does not unlawfully discriminate against its staff, board, volunteers, committees, or recipients of services based on any characteristic or status protected by federal, state, or local law and is committed to a culture of inclusion, and understands, respects, and values the diversity of others.
In our annual report submitted to the YMCA of the USA, the YMCA of Douglas County certifies that its policies and practices conform to federal, state, and local anti-discrimination requirements. Moreover, we certify our commitment to a culture of diversity and inclusion in recognition that the YMCA is “for all.” The YMCA strengthens the foundations of its community when it engages people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Gender Policy
Applies to:
This policy applies to all YMCA employees, members and guests of the YMCA of Douglas County.
Purpose:
This policy is designed to create a safe and inclusive facility for all employees, members and guests. The YMCA is founded upon and committed to diversity and inclusion. The YMCA of Douglas County’s policy is to not discriminate in any way against any individual based on an individual’s gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation. This policy creates guidelines to address the needs of our community members and clarifies how to implement the policy when questions may arise.
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​POLICY
Restroom accessibility
All YMCA of Douglas County employees, members and guests have a right to safe and appropriate restroom facilities, including the right to use a restroom that corresponds to the employee’s gender identity, regardless of the employee’s sex assigned at birth.
Any employee, member or guest with a need or desire for increased privacy, regardless of the reason, will be provided access to a single-stall restroom when available. Single-stall restrooms are not meant to segregate individuals based on their gender identity but are an option for those seeking privacy for any reason. No employee, member or guest may be required to use such a restroom.
For example, transgender women may use the women’s restroom, and transgender men may use the men’s restroom. Transitioning, non-binary, and gender non-conforming employees may use whichever restroom the employee, member or guest determines is the most appropriate and safest option for them.
Locker room accessibility
All YMCA of Douglas County employees, members and guests have the right to use the locker room that corresponds to their gender identity. Anyone who has a need or desire for increased privacy, regardless of the reason, may use a private changing area located in the locker rooms, or use the private shower rooms when available. Single-stall changing areas are not meant to segregate individuals based on their gender identity but are an option for those seeking privacy for any reason.
Discrimination/Harassment
The YMCA of Douglas County is committed to creating a safe environment for all employees, members and guests, including transgender, non-binary, transitioning, and gender non-conforming employees. This policy aligns with Oregon's protections under the Oregon Equality Act, ORS 659A.403 and other state laws.
It is against the law, and a violation of the YMCA’s policy, to discriminate in any way (including, but not limited to, failure to hire, failure to promote, unlawful termination, and harassment) against any employee because of an employee’s actual or perceived gender identity or expression.
It is also against the law, and a violation of this policy, to retaliate against any person objecting to gender identity discrimination in employment or supporting enforcement of legal protections.
Any incident of discrimination, harassment, or violence based on gender identity or expression will receive immediate and effective attention. This includes, but is not limited to, investigating the incident, taking immediate corrective action, and providing employees with appropriate resources.
Privacy and Confidentiality
The YMCA of Douglas County is committed to respecting and safeguarding the privacy and confidentiality of all individuals regarding their gender identity, expression, and any related matters. The following principles will guide our approach:
Confidentiality: All information related to an individual's gender identity, gender expression, or transition will be treated as confidential. This includes but is not limited to any discussions, documentation, or requests made in relation to an individual's gender identity.
Consent: Such information will only be disclosed on a need-to-know basis and with the explicit consent of the individual. Disclosure without consent will be limited strictly to situations where it is required by law or when necessary to protect the health and safety of the individual or others, in which case the individual will be informed of such disclosures.
Need-to-Know Basis: Access to information regarding an individual's gender identity or transition will be restricted to those directly involved in supporting the individual or in administrative roles that require such knowledge to provide appropriate accommodations or support.