The issue of trans women competing in sports is a current hot topic. A dozen states have passed laws circumscribing their participation in scholastic events. The Biden administration is set to publish Title IX regulations which prohibit discrimination against them in secondary schools and colleges receiving federal funds. We are now struggling with the concept of “fairness” in athletics and the trauma of being denied one’s self-definition of gender. As with abortion rights, there seems to be no easy solution.
We’re talking past each other here. Some of us value “fairness” in athletic competition as a fundamental right. Others see a person’s self-definition as the primary issue. BOTH ARE IMPORTANT, and we must come together to figure out a way to honor both. Similar to many other politically charged topics, such as health care access, voting rules, police funding, etc. Step one is: acknowledge the other sides’ position and feelings – “walk a mile in my shoes.”
As a life-long competitive athlete, I have seen many instances where lack of fairness has caused pain to participants. Men and women using steroids and other drugs. Cutting the course short in running and cycling events. Entering out of category – age, skill level, golf handicap. To those who define themselves in a major way through their athletic activities, these can affect their mental health.
Ever since we started throwing spears and rocks while running after game in the African highlands 150,000 years ago, physical prowess has been a key human survival trait. Denying its importance is short-sighted. That’s why ALL of us who want to compete in sports should be able to participate fully and fairly.