For Immediate Release:
Wednesday, November 5, 2008                      

Contact: Alessandra Soler Meetze at 602-418-5499 (cell)/602-650-1854 (office)

PHOENIX – After receiving a letter from the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona, Central Arizona Shelter Services, Inc. (CASS) has agreed to change its long standing policy of refusing to allow transgender persons to be housed according to their gender identity.

The ACLU was concerned about the unique problems and safety concerns faced by this segment of the homeless population,” said Dan Pochoda, Legal Director of the ACLU of Arizona. “We are very pleased that CASS has taken proactive steps to protect transgender individuals from discrimination or threat when seeking emergency shelter services.”

IIn March, the ACLU of Arizona sent a letter seeking a change in policy. CASS is Arizona’s largest provider of housing services for the homeless.

The new policy, which is effective immediately, states that transgender individuals will be provided shelter in the dormitory of their self-reported gender identity and not on the basis of biological gender unless requested by the individual. In addition, transgender clients will be provided separate private restroom facilities while residing in the shelter

For the past six months, Pochoda has been working closely with CASS officials to develop best practices and screening materials that are sensitive to the unique needs of transgender persons.  The ACLU of Arizona provided materials and examples from other cities that have adopted the approach recommended by transgender, lesbian and gay support groups. These cities, including Boston, Toronto and San Francisco, have taken steps to sensitize and train staff members to the concerns of transgender clients.

The ACLU commends the CASS leadership for the constructive resolution of this matter, and has agreed to continue to work with CASS to successfully implement the change. CASS has agreed to codify the new policy in writing and to train employees in its implementation, including at the intake stage for a new client.

To read the policy click here.