The U.S. Supreme Court has issued its decision in Hecox v. Little and B.P.J. v. West Virginia, ruling that states may prohibit trans girls from participating on girls’ school sports teams. By allowing schools and states to separate teams on the basis of biological sex, the Court upheld existing state bans rather than recognizing the protections trans students are entitled to under the Equal Protection Clause and Title IX.

This is a deeply disappointing decision and an undeniable setback, but it is important to be clear about the scope. 

The ruling does not eliminate existing state protections or inclusive policies that allow trans youth to participate in school sports. It does not require schools or states to separate teams based on biological sex. Instead, it permits individual states and schools to make that determination without federal involvement.

This is not equality, nor is it protection. Instead, this decision adds to the growing wave of attacks targeting trans youth across the country. But this is not the end of the fight.

“Today’s Supreme Court decision is heartbreaking, but it does not change what we know to be true: transgender youth deserve to belong, to be safe, and to have the same opportunities as every other young person. Here in California, we must continue to stand firm in protecting inclusive policies and making sure every student can show up fully as themselves — on and off the field.”

Kathie Moehlig (she/her), Founder and Executive Director of TransFamily Support Services.

Our commitment to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for trans youth remains unwavering. We will continue showing up for trans youth and advocating for their rights, even when the systems meant to protect them fall short. No court decision changes their worth, and no setback will stop us from fighting for the future they deserve.