Fathers love their children as much as mothers do, and should have access to the tools and facilities to properly care for them.
But when it comes to diaper changing tables in public restrooms-they’re usually only available in the women’s rooms.
One dad made that realization and fully knows just how difficult it can be for UK dads to be able to change their children’s diapers without a stable, clean surface at hand.
His name is Donte Palmer, and when a photo of him leaning against a restroom wall using his own lap as a table so he can change his little boy’s diaper went viral, he started the #Squatforchange Instagram hashtag.
‘What’s the deal with not having changing tables in men’s bathroom as if we don’t exist,’ he wrote on the post. ‘Clearly we do this often because look how comfortable my son is. It’s routine to him! Let’s fix this problem!’
In addition, Donte started the #Squatforchange campaign and since then, many other dads have shared their own photos, stories, and opinions about the issue.
#ThrowBack 🙌🏽 New Delhi, India supports #squatforchange ❤️🙌🏽 We are still making change! #changewillhappen #equality @squatforchange #newdelhi #newdelhiindia pic.twitter.com/iI9T6T6DlY
— Donte Palmer (@3boys_1Goal) May 5, 2019
Donte told Metro.co.uk that loving fathers deserve access to changing and care facilities for their children as much as mothers do.
“Changing tables are important in men’s restrooms because fathers deserve the opportunity to be their best,” he said.
The story also caught the attention of actor Ashton Kutcher, who had launched his own changing tables in men’s rooms campaign back in 2015. “I would like my daughter to experience a world where gender doesn’t dictate one’s responsibility or limit one’s opportunity,” he said.
Only a year later, the U.S. passed the Bathroom Accessible in Every Situation Act.
Is it time for the UK to do the same? What are your thoughts on the issue?
