Press Release: Utah Transgender Teen Faces Barriers in High School Sports Amid Legal Dispute
SALT LAKE CITY, UT – A transgender teen in Utah finds herself at the center of a legal battle over the right to compete in girls’ high school athletics. Though the state’s eligibility commission approved her participation, the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) prohibited her from competing, citing a controversial executive order issued by President Donald Trump that restricts transgender girls from participating in sports.
This issue surfaced during a June 2 court hearing regarding Utah’s 2022 law that bans transgender girls in sports. Judge Keith Kelly blocked the law temporarily and is now evaluating whether to dismiss the case, with UHSAA asserting it was following federal law based on Trump’s order. However, plaintiffs, including two transgender girls and their families, argue that UHSAA is in contempt for not allowing the teen to compete despite an existing court injunction against the law.
During the recent hearings, it was confirmed that the teen successfully met the eligibility requirements set out by the commission. However, UHSAA’s new policy—developed in response to the executive order—bars all transgender girls, regardless of their eligibility status assessed by the commission.
Amy Whelan, the attorney for the plaintiffs, criticized UHSAA for a lack of transparency regarding this policy, questioning its validity outside of legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the state’s attorney contended that the plaintiffs’ quest for relief is fruitless under the current regulations.
As Judge Kelly prepares to issue a written ruling on the matter, advocates for transgender rights are watching closely, emphasizing the need for clarity and fairness in sports participation for all students.
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