Parents Defending Education Action (PDE) is throwing its support behind Senator Marsha Blackburn's legislative efforts to protect female athletes. These measures aim to address the increasing concerns surrounding violence against women in athletics and challenge the NCAA's current transgender policy.
PDE President Nicole Neily criticizes the Biden administration's stance on the inclusion of biological males in women's sports, arguing that it undermines the original purpose of Title IX, which was designed to safeguard opportunities for women in athletics. She believes the current policies effectively weaponize a girl's sex against her, inverting the intent of the law.
Neily advocates for the establishment of "American Girls in Sports Day" to honor the dedication and achievements of female athletes, especially in light of what she perceives as a disregard for the definition of 'woman' by the current administration. She stresses the urgency of Congressional action to create lasting protections for female athletes, regardless of the political climate.
Neily argues that existing laws, like Title IX, are being reinterpreted by administrative agencies beyond their original meaning. She points to the broadening of the word "sex" to encompass "sexual orientation" and "gender identity" as an example of this overreach.
Senator Blackburn's proposed "Fair Play for Girls Act" mandates a report from the U.S. attorney general on violence against women in sports, including an analysis of factors hindering fair competition for biological females, the loss of opportunities for girls due to the inclusion of biological males, and the prevalence of sexual harassment and abuse in women's athletics. A separate resolution urges the NCAA to rescind its policy on transgender athletes and adopt a biological sex-based standard. Finally, another resolution designates October 10th as "American Girls in Sports Day." These initiatives have garnered support from various figures, including Riley Gaines, Caitlyn Jenner, and the Independent Women’s Forum.
Neily highlights the potential for physical harm to female athletes when competing against biological males, citing differences in strength and speed. She uses the example of lacrosse, where the velocity of a ball thrown by a male player significantly exceeds that of a female player, underscoring the risk of injury. She emphasizes the immense dedication and sacrifice required to reach collegiate-level athletics and believes it's unfair for girls to lose opportunities to biological males.
Neily advocates for bipartisan support for these measures, emphasizing their importance in safeguarding girls and acknowledging their athletic achievements.
