http://www.kptv.com/Global/story.asp?S=2384308
10-04-04
EUGENE -- The University of Oregon has already set aside several unisex bathrooms to accomodate transgendered students, or those who cross dress, have had a sex change or say they identify with the opposite gender.
The city's Human Rights Commission runs educational seminars for city employees about the needs of such individuals.
City staff and community activists are now reviving an effort to expand Eugene's anti-discrimination laws to include protections for transgendered people.
Supporters say they are encouraged by the growing number of public bodies such as the university that prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity, and by the increased visibility and activism of local transgendered people.
They're also hopeful that, come next year, a new mayor and City Council will be more open to the idea of extending such protections.
But more than that, "we really want to do what we promised we would do, and that is to provide a lot more education," said Karen Hyatt with the city's human rights program. "We didn't realize it was needed and we found out last time that it was."
That education so far has included diversity training for city employees and contacts with such groups as the Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce, City Club of Eugene and Temple Beth Israel. The city also plans to host a community meeting on transgender issues on Oct. 18.