Donald Trump threatened to cut federal funds to California if a transgender student is not prevented from participating in a women’s sports competition.
The controversy involves Ab Hernandez, a 16 -year high school student, whose participation in an athletics championship generated a national debate on the inclusion of trans athletes in the sport.
Since 2013, has a state law that allows transgender athletes to compete for competitions according to the genre with which they identify themselves. However, Trump, who prohibited the participation of trans athletes in women’s championships during his term, now requires the state to comply with this measure.
Changes in competition and reactions
In response to the controversy, the federation that regulates high school sports in California implemented new policies.
If a trans athlete qualifies for a final, an additional vacancy will open to a cisgender athlete. Also, if the trans athlete wins a podium position, two medals will be delivered – one for her and one for the next classified cisgender athlete.
The California governor considered these changes a “reasonable commitment.” On the other hand, conservative groups such as California Family Council, a conservative organization, argue that these measures ignore fundamental biological differences between men and women.
The United States Department of Justice is investigating whether the California State Law violates title IX, which prohibits gender discrimination in educational institutions that receive federal funds.
While the debate continues, Ab Hernandez and his mother defend the young woman’s right to participate in sports, stating that she is a girl and identifies herself as such.
Her athletics team supports her and treats like any other athlete, demonstrating that support for inclusion comes from inside the team itself.
