San Francisco YMCA Updates Locker Room Rules After Member Complaints

A San Francisco YMCA branch adopted new locker room guidelines after receiving complaints from some members about nudity and conduct in a women’s changing area. The updated rules were posted at the Stonestown neighborhood facility. They state that “nudity should be discreet, limited, and brief” and direct members to remain clothed or covered except when actively showering.

The policy also requires users to “respect privacy and personal space” and maintain appropriate distance from others. Hair dryers are limited to drying head hair, and children age five and older using a locker room designated for the opposite sex must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Some members said the changes appear to respond to concerns raised over the past two years about behavior inside the facility. Critics alleged that a transgender woman known as Sammy at times remained unclothed in shared spaces for extended periods.

Supporters said she was being unfairly singled out and argued she was entitled to use facilities consistent with her gender identity. Several members said Sammy has not been seen at the Stonestown location since the updated guidelines were implemented.

Susan Pete, a 59-year-old member, questioned how the policy would be enforced. ’’” Pete said. The dispute drew attention last year with protests outside YMCA locations in San Francisco and Berkeley and competing petitions from members. YMCA officials have previously pointed to California civil rights protections that allow individuals to use facilities consistent with their gender identity.

Angelina Zhou, a 17-year-old member, previously said she supported transgender rights but joined a petition calling for changes after an uncomfortable experience. “‘Yes, it’s weird that he’s in the women’s locker room naked,’” Zhou said. The YMCA did not respond to requests for comment on the updated policy.