The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics announced Monday that it has barred transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
“Only NAIA student-athletes whose biological sex is female may take part in NAIA-sponsored
female sports,” the body said in its announcement of the choice.
The announcement later clarified that “biological sex is defined by distinguishing characteristics and will be supported by birth certificate or signed affidavit.”
The NAIA is an NCAA alternative that governs the athletics for 241 schools, which the Washington Post said are “mostly small and personal”.
NAIA president and CEO Jim Carr issued a press release concerning the transgender ban, which matches into effect on Aug. 1.
“We’re unwavering in our support of fair competition for our student-athletes,” Carr said. “It’s crucial that NAIA member institutions, conferences, and student-athletes take part in an environment that’s equitable and respectful. With input from our member institutions and the Transgender Task Force, the NAIA’s Council of Presidents has confirmed our path forward.”
The query of transgender athletes competing against women got here to the forefront throughout the 2021-22 NCAA swimming season.
Lia Thomas, who had previously competed for 3 years as a male on the University of Pennsylvania swim team transitioned to female and started setting various school or pool records and ultimately won a national championship in 2022.
The Washington Post said that the NAIA ban has sparked “concerns” that the NCAA might follow suit.
Anna Baeth, who’s the director of research at Athlete Ally, which advocates for queer sports participation, spoke to the outlet about these fears.
“I feel that [the NAIA vote] provides a sense that the NCAA would have the latitude to do the identical,” Baeth said. “I feel that that feeling of latitude can be incredibly misguided.”
Last month, a bunch of girls athletes, including numerous swimmers who competed against Thomas, sued the NCAA, searching for a ban of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.
