Earlier this evening, the Norfolk Public Schools Board of Education voted 5 to 1 to approve a policy that would prevent transgender students from participating in school athletics.Â
The policy, which requires student athletes to play on sports teams that correspond with their “biological sex at birth,†is unnecessary and discriminatory, given that the Nebraska School Activities Association already has requirements in place in order for transgender athletes to compete.
According to the ACLU of Nebraska, “barring trans students from participating in sports is impermissible sex discrimination, a violation of Title IX, and a denial of equal protection.â€
Further, the policy has proven to be unpopular amongst youth themselves. Students created and circulated an online petition that received nearly 500 signatures opposing the policy.
“Policies like these are meant to send the message that transgender people are not welcome, and that is a message we will not stand for,†says Abbi Swatsworth, executive director of OutNebraska. “Every single student, transgender or not, deserves the opportunity to challenge themselves, improve fitness and be part of a team.â€
Despite this disappointing outcome, OutNebraska will continue to advocate for the rights of all gay and transgender Nebraskans, especially our youth.
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OutNebraska is a non-partisan organization working to empower, celebrate and grow LGBTQ+ communities in Nebraska. For more information visit outnebraska.org