Two female student athletes from a California school district have filed a lawsuit alleging Title IX violations after they were pushed off their varsity cross-country team in favor of a transgender student who did not attend required practices. The girls, Taylor and Kaitlyn, claim that the trans student was given preferential treatment and that their ability to compete and gain college recognition has been jeopardized.
The athletes protested the situation by wearing t-shirts that said “Save Girls’ Sports” and “It’s Common Sense. XX ≠ XY” at a meet, but were asked to remove or conceal their shirts by school officials who compared the messaging to a swastika. The lawsuit also accuses the district of infringing on their First Amendment rights.
The students and their families argue that the transgender student is depriving them of opportunities and believe that allowing males in female spaces goes against their safety and privacy. They have received support from other students and parents at a school board meeting, with one 16-year-old student expressing concern over genetic advantages and the censorship of students who voice their opinions.
A spokesperson for the district stated that California law prohibits discrimination based on gender identity and expression, and emphasized the district’s commitment to equity and well-being for all students. The lawsuit highlights a growing debate over transgender participation in sports and the rights of female athletes.
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