The US Toilet Crisis

The United States toilet crisis has gone too far. In this country we often hear comments about privacy. People are worried about Facebook using data to affect large events in the world, but nobody is worried about the lack of privacy in the stalls. Before I begin, I must say that the reason I am only discussing the issues with stalls in this country is because urinals without dividers are already fully acknowledged to be a crime against humanity. 

When one enters a stall to take care of business, it simply gives an illusion of privacy without actually providing it. Quickly, the cracks between the doors are noticed and the imaginary timer that counts down the arrival of a stranger begins. Then once this event inevitably occurs, it is one of the most uncomfortable moments imaginable: sitting there, in the most vulnerable state a human can be in, and making eye-contact with a complete stranger through the crack of a door in a bathroom. Then, the next timer starts and you have to hurry through your business to not be considered weird or just plain rude. Lastly, you exit the stall and give the awkward head nod to the stranger who moments ago was staring at you through the crack. Now some might say that this experience is important because it gives you a nice little story to tell your friend waiting for you outside. But, I am not from this camp. Sure, it may produce some short laughs, but is it worth creating a fear of public restrooms for the rest of your life? I say no. 

The issue is made worse because the only way to avoid this event is to do the classic ‘Peek Under.’ However, this move is equally as awkward. Nobody wants to be the person peeking under a stall, and nobody wants to see heads peeking around outside the stall when they are doing their business. 

This dark picture painted might make some think there is no hope. But, there is. All we have to do is look to Europe where there are no cracks between the doors and the doors go from floor to ceiling. My hope is that one day America will reach this pinnacle of toilet privacy because as of now, we are far behind. Until then, I hope that nobody has to experience this event more than necessary because it is just the worst.