(FOX40.COM) — The question of whether transgender athletes can play on girls’ teams has sparked controversy all over the U.S. In Elk Grove, government leaders are leaving it to the courts.
On Tuesday, the Elk Grove Unified School District allowed many speakers to voice their opinions about Title IX (9), which is supposed to ensure fairness and safety for girls. The majority of the speakers voiced support for the law and for separating males and females on sports teams.
This came after board member Heidi Moore proposed a resolution to put the topic on a future board agenda, enabling them to decide whether or not they support Title IX.
In February, President Donald Trump issued an executive order that aimed to keep biological males out of female sports.
While most people supported the separation at Tuesday’s meeting, others spoke out against it.
“That title hides what this really is. A resolution to push transgender children out of sports and into harm,” said Katie Houston, who identified herself as a mental health clinician. “As a clinician, I see how depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation rise when students are cut off from belonging.”
But other’s said the discussion was about fairness.
“Boys and girls are biologically different. And that’s why we have girls’ sports to begin with,” said Greg Burt, VP of CA Family Council. “Because it’s an acknowledgement that boys’ and girls’ bodies are different. And when you start letting boys participate in girls’ sports, girls’ sports are going to disappear.”
In a 7-1 vote, EGUSD voted not to add a resolution to a future agenda since the issue is being worked out through the court system on a national scale, leaving Moore disappointed.
“For a district that repeatedly talks about inclusion for all, I would like to add, where exactly are girls included if we refuse to take a stand today?” Moore said. “This is about doing what is right for the girls, who do not have a voice. I am their voice today, and I hope you will join me.”
Veronica Catlin
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