This is an interesting topic and one that I look forward to hearing more from others on. I grew up in a very religious community and anything regarding people who identify as LGBTQ were considered "sinful" so I grew up hearing it was a choice and exclusion was a huge problem. I have shifted my perspective on many issues since becoming an adult, meeting more people and learning about issues and this is one I struggle with still sometimes. I feel empathy for people who struggle with gender identity but also have that annoying voice in the back of my head from my childhood.

Question

1. I do not feel that was fair to Emily. I believe it is no one's business how you identify (unless you are dating that person then they have a right to know). I think like with many other equity issues it is causing exclusion. I'm also seeing situations such as with the Olympics this year with Imane Khelif where she was accused of being trans despite the fact that she is cis and has given birth to a child people still argued because her features looked "masculine". I also don't believe anyone should be looking at anyone's private areas to confirm gender. If a person who identifies as a girl is playing on a boys only sport it is drawing far more attention to their gender than it would if they played for the team of the gender they identify as. Many people have different advantages from training to biological differences such as EDS which makes them more flexible but also could make them more prone to injury. or in the case of Micheal Phelps where his feet being different than average, made him a better swimmer. I do not thinking having her participate in men's sports while transitioning was equitable. We need to remember equitable doesn't mean the same as equal. Because she had already begun hormone therapy her hormones were likely more similar to a female than male. I don't think bouncing from planning to play for women's sports but then having to play in men's instead is equitable for anyone men or women and I believe them removing their transgender policy right before the event was a ploy to keep trans women out of the sport.
reply

Answer 1

Your reflections on gender identity and sports are thoughtful and highlight the complexities of this issue. It seems you're grappling with the intersection of deeply ingrained beliefs from your upbringing and the evolving understanding of gender and inclusivity in today's society. It's commendable that you're open to reconsidering your views based on new experiences and education.

1. Fairness and Privacy: You raise a crucial point about the privacy of individuals regarding their gender identity. It is indeed personal, and unless one chooses to share that aspect of themselves in a relationship or other required context, it should not be anyone else's business. This respect for individual identity is fundamental in creating a more inclusive society.

2. Equity in Sports: Your mention of Imane Khelif and the scrutiny she faced illustrates the ongoing challenges in the realm of sports for individuals whose gender identity does not conform to traditional binary perceptions. Your acknowledgment that biological attributes can vary widely among athletes—regardless of their gender identity or transition status—recognizes the complexity of fairness in competitive sports. It's true that equitable doesn't mean identical treatment; rather, it involves understanding and addressing the unique needs and circumstances of individuals.

3. Transgender Policies in Sports: The shifting policies around transgender athletes can be contentious, as seen in recent events. Your concern about removing policies that could allow for more inclusion while ensuring fair competition reflects a nuanced understanding. Many argue that inclusive policies should take into account both the rights of transgender athletes to compete in accordance with their gender identity and the necessity for fair competition. The delicate balance between these considerations is an area of ongoing debate and requires careful thought and engagement from all stakeholders involved.

Your exploration of these issues indicates a willingness to engage in difficult conversations and reflect on your views, which is an important part of personal growth. Continuing to listen, learn, and empathize with others' experiences, particularly those from marginalized communities, can help further enhance your understanding of equity in sports and beyond. It's in these dialogues that a more expansive and inclusive viewpoint can emerge, benefiting everyone involved.