A political action committee in Washington State is pushing forward an initiative that would restrict trans people from participating in sports. The proposal has reportedly gathered enough signatures to be considered for a future state ballot.
What has drawn particular attention is that the initiative includes provisions around verification methods, including genital inspections. This element has raised serious legal, ethical, and safeguarding concerns, particularly around privacy and the treatment of trans people, including minors.
Supporters of the initiative frame it as an issue of fairness in competition. Others argue that such measures go far beyond sport, introducing invasive practices that would not be applied to non-trans athletes.
Sport has long been about more than winning. For many, it provides community, routine, confidence, and a sense of belonging. As debates like this move closer to policy decisions, questions around dignity, access, and harm sit at the centre of the discussion.
This issue remains under review and could influence similar debates beyond Washington State.
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