1.
What evidence shows that transgender athletes have an unfair
advantage in their sports?
2. How do you explain your view if research shows that hormone
therapy reduces any advantage for transgender athletes?
3. If fairness is your main concern, why not support stricter rules for
all athletes instead of excluding transgender athletes?
4. How do you respond to transgender athletes who say competing
as their true selves has helped their mental health and
performance?
5. If sports promote inclusion and teamwork, how does excluding
transgender athletes fit with these values?
Conclusion
Allowing transgender athletes to compete according to their gender
identity is a matter of fundamental rights and fairness. Denying them
this opportunity goes against core principles of equality, as outlined in
the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Major organizations, like the
International Olympic Committee, already have strict regulations in place
regarding hormone levels and transition periods to ensure all athletes
compete under fair and safe conditions.
Furthermore, including transgender athletes reduces risks of anxiety and
depression—mental health challenges they often face due to
discrimination and exclusion. Allowing them to compete as their true
selves not only protects their dignity but also strengthens the sports
community, making it more inclusive and supportive. This isn’t just
about fairness; it’s an opportunity to build a sports world that respects
everyone, with no exceptions.
Testimonie
Natalie Ryan, a professional golfer from Virginia, shares that she never
had issues competing in the women's division until she joined the PDGA
and turned professional in 2019. Initially, when no one knew about her
identity, she had no problems with any of the other athletes. However,
someone eventually went through her Facebook profile, discovered she
was trans, and informed others. From that moment on, Ryan noticed a
change in how she was treated, with negative comments and attitudes
around her. Some athletes began saying that competing against a trans
woman wasn't safe for cisgender athletes and that they experienced
emotional distress from feeling they were at a disadvantage. Ryan states
that these experiences affected her emotional well-being, integrity, and
career as an athlete, highlighting a clear case of discrimination.
