In my years of involvement in sports, I’ve seen a concerning trend: transgender and non-binary student athletes are increasingly under attack by politicians and certain media outlets. In fact, 2021 surpassed 2015 as the worst year for anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, with numerous bills targeting transgender girls and women in sports.
Transgender and non-binary individuals have faced challenges for years, and sports have become another battleground. Over the past two decades, anti-LGBTQ politicians have spread disinformation about the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly targeting transgender and non-binary people. Remember the bathroom bills? Those were based on unfounded fears about threats to women and girls’ safety. Now, the focus has shifted to sports, with baseless arguments about participation and misleading information about healthcare access.
It’s essential to understand that these attacks on transgender youth, especially trans athletes, are driven by discrimination, not facts. After failing to restrict access to restrooms, some legislators have turned to sports as their next target, using misinformation to gain political traction.
Some proponents of anti-trans sports bans rely on stereotypes with sexist implications. While certain physical attributes might benefit an athlete in a particular sport, natural variations exist in all sports. It’s crucial to break down these stereotypes. Transgender girls aren’t dominating girls’ sports. Transgender youth, like all youth, have varied interests, abilities, and commitment levels to sports.
Transgender youth already face significant discrimination, including in schools. They experience harassment, harsher discipline, and even physical or sexual assault due to their gender identity. Anti-trans sports bans only serve to further marginalize these young individuals.
It’s worth noting that twenty states, the IOC, and the NCAA have allowed trans athletes to participate in sports for years without any significant issues. Playing sports offers numerous benefits, from physical health to self-confidence and leadership skills. Transgender youth shouldn’t be denied these opportunities.
Many renowned athletes, including Megan Rapinoe, Billie Jean King, and Dwyane Wade, have voiced their support for transgender teammates and competitors. It’s time for us to stand with them and champion the rights of all athletes, regardless of their gender identity.