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Changing Spaces Virginia and Washington DC

Graphic Changing Spaces Virginia and Washington DC chapter with adult changing table

Universal Changing Table

Smirthwaite hi riser changing bench universal changing table

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Virginia and
Washington DC Chapter

The Virginia and Washington D.C. Chapter of the Changing Spaces Campaign is led by Advocates Justin Boatner and Monika Thrower.

E-mail: ChangingSpacesVA@yahoo.com

Facebook Group: Changing Spaces Virginia/DC Chapter

Facebook Page: Changing Spaces VA/DC

Advocacy at the State Level

Let your voice be heard!

In January 2026, Virginia changing spaces chapter leader Monika Thrower, along with other disability advocates in Virginia, submitted a proposal to the Virginia Board of Housing and Community Development to adopt building codes that will require adult changing stations to be located in various new buildings throughout the state. We need YOU to send in your letter of support, asking the Board to adopt the changes to the VA state building code!

codedevelopment@dhcd.virginia.gov

Your comments are needed before the next meeting on May 11, 2026!

Send emails to:

Sample email:

Subject Line: Public comment for code change proposal B11.10.4

To the Virginia Board of housing and community development:

I am writing in support of proposal B1 1.10.4. Which will make Adult Changing Stations a requirement in new buildings of certain types in Virginia. By approving this proposal, you will drastically improve the quality of life for many people with disabilities, by giving them access to a safe, private, and dignified place to address their restrooms while away from home. Currently, countless children and adult adults that have a disability or medical condition have nowhere to change undergarments or clothing, while away from home, because they have outgrown baby changing tables. This leads to many of these individuals becoming isolated at home, or changing in unsanitary, undignified places, like the floor of a public bathroom, or on a picnic blanket on the grass, or in their vehicle. Adult Changing stations within family restrooms are essential for us to include all people in community life, regardless of medical condition or disability.

This is important to me personally because…

Sincerely,

Sign your name

(Add a photo of yourself or your loved one who you advocate for)

Read Building Code Proposal Requiring Adult Changing Stations in Virginia

Advocacy in Virginia and Washington DC

About this Chapter:

Justin Boatner was inspired to start advocating for accessible restrooms with universal changing tables as a natural extension of his broader work advocating for disabled individuals in his state. Justin has a disability, but he does not let that stop him. He is an active athlete and is a member of the Arlington Democratic Disability Caucus.

Also leading this chapter is Monika Thrower."As a mom to a child who has multiple disabilities and medical complexities, I see the need for a private, clean & dignified place to change undergarments or diapers for our loved ones in our community over the age of 2 years old. I have decided to join the Changing Spaces Campaign to help advocate for individuals with disabilities like our son to meet their needs while they are away from home so they can experience true community inclusion." -Monika Thrower

Reach our to Justin and Monika to find out how you can join in the advocacy work in Virginia and DC!