TAMPA, Fla. — Luis Viera is not just a Tampa City Councilman, he’s a dad.
A dad who says some aspects of fatherhood in society are still outdated.
“Fathers should be expected to step it up and be a part of their kids lives.”
He says that includes changing diapers.
That’s why he’s pushing to pass an ordinance to require changing tables in the men’s restrooms of all future city-owned buildings.
“We are way past the time and the idea that things like changing children and change babies is only something to be done in the hands of women or mothers.”
The commissioner’s efforts are the latest in the “squat for change” movement started by a Jacksonville father who’s Instagram post went viral.
Other dads shared pictures too showing how tough it can be for dad’s trying to change diapers in public.
“Just yesterday we were out to eat for lunch and I had to change our 11-month-old on the floor of the men’s room. There was no other option,” said Chris Durig.
Durig is spending the day before Christmas taking his two kids to the Florida Aquarium.
“Whether or not my wife and I are together, I still take turns changing him or we go out and do things on our own. So we’ve got to have the changing tables as well in the men’s room.”
City officials say it will cost about $64,000 to put in about 150 changing tables in all current city-owned bathrooms.
The city council will discuss it further after New Years.
