USC Lyon Center gym trialing an ‘inclusive workout area’ that allegedly bars men

USC Gym Launches Inclusive Space for Women and Non-Binary Students

The University of Southern California is trialing a new approach at its gym, aiming to create what it calls an “inclusive training space” that excludes men on certain days.

Specifically, on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 to 11 a.m., the Robinson Room at Lyon Center will serve as a designated area for women and non-binary students to work out, aiming to provide a safer and more comfortable environment for them.

This initiative, spearheaded by the Student Council for Gender Empowerment (SAGE), reportedly grew from concerns expressed by women and non-binary students about feeling uncomfortable in traditional gym settings.

Jana Al-Najjar, who leads advocacy efforts for SAGE, noted, “We’ve heard from multiple individuals who wanted to use the gym but felt uneasy due to being approached or looked at while working out.” She reflects on the potential long-term impact of such discomfort, suggesting it may lead some to stop attending the gym altogether.

According to reports, this approach is initially experimental, and while designed to support specific groups, it must still adhere to university policies that require it to be open to all. Al-Najjar indicated that there were challenges regarding federal restrictions on diversity and inclusion initiatives, leading to discussions about balancing the need for a safe space while remaining accessible to everyone.

The trial’s success hinges on gauging student demand. Mengze Wu, a fourth-year neuroscience student, shared her perspective, stating, “My experiences in predominantly male environments have not been the most pleasant. I often feel like I can’t claim the space unless I assert myself, which is a challenge in itself.”

Another student, Hannah Lee, who is majoring in biomedical engineering, pointed out that the need for such an initiative underscores a broader societal issue. “Thinking that a women-only space is a good idea highlights a systemic problem,” she commented, suggesting that these spaces should ideally be inclusive for all genders.

A spokesperson for USC Student Life confirmed that the initiative is supported by the university’s Undergraduate Student Government and is designed to be in line with university policies.