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Days After President Joe Biden’s Nationwide Rule, Megan Rapinoe and Fiancé Sue Bird Join Other Athletes in Opposing Trans Athlete Ban

Published 04/11/2023, 11:30 AM EDT

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The issue of transgender athletes being able to participate in sports events took a new turn as athletes like Megan Rapinoe opposed the movement. According to CNN, the Joe Biden Administration proposed a different rule change, where schools can enforce restrictions on transgender student-athletes.

But, they also oppose policies that ‘categorically’ ban students from participating in sports teams consistent with gender. Despite that, reports emerged that the U.S. Department of Education had given schools the flexibility to adopt those policies.

As usual, some fans supported it while others opposed the movement. Significantly, USWNT soccer star Rapinoe signed a letter opposing the Federal Anti-Trans Sports Ban. Including her, around 40 Olympic and Paralympic athletes signed the letter to prevent the Anti-Trans Sports Ban, sending it to the House of Representatives legislative directors on Monday.

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Megan Rapinoe rejects anti-Trans sports ban by sending an opposing letter

Fans know the soccer superstar for her fight against social inequalities and other vital issues. Along with Rapinoe, retired WNBA basketball player and partner Sue Bird and USWNT star Becky Sauerbrunn joined Rapinoe in signing the letter. The LGBTQ advocacy group Athlete Ally organized the letter. Apart from Rapinoe, various athletes from different sports like soccer, hockey, and rugby joined the outspoken soccer icon.

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According to Sports Illustrated, the letter calls out the Republican-led “Protection of Girls and Women in Sports Act,” HR 734, which would prevent transgender athletes from competing in various sports events in the country. The athletes who signed the bill stated how the bill failed to “protect women in sports.” 

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They also explained how mental and physical health benefits would be in jeopardy. In addition, the letter focuses on the importance of gender equity in sports.

World Athletics Takes a Monumental Decision on Transgender Women Competing in Elite Female Competitions

The new ban imposed in some states

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They also brought the equal pay issue into the limelight through the letter. They wanted the policymakers to understand the athletes who fought for justice throughout these years. Along with these pointers, there is other critical information in the letter.

In the meantime, the U.S. Department of Education gave schools the flexibility to adopt policies based on grade, sport, and level of competition. It also means preventing severe injuries to transgender athletes by ensuring they have a safe environment to partake in sports competitions.

The ruling came in just after Kansas imposed restrictions on transgender athletes. Other states include Tennessee, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Georgia. People have widely discussed the issue in the country as people would probably challenge the ruling in court. 

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Written by:

Jacob Gijy

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Jacob Gijy is a senior sports writer at EssentiallySports, with a passion for writing about soccer, NBA, and other American sports. He has published over 1500 articles to date, showcasing his creativity and engaging writing style that captivates his audience. As an ardent admirer of Arsenal, Jacob's soccer roots can be traced back to the legendary Thierry Henry.
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