Athlete Ally Responds to Indiana Anti-Trans Athlete Bill
May 24, 2022 — Athlete Ally responded to news that Indiana lawmakers have voted to override the Governor’s veto of a bill banning transgender students from participating in girls’ sports. In his unexpected veto in March, Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb wrote, “If it is the goal of [the bill] to provide clarity and one consistent state policy regarding the fairness of K-12 sports in Indiana, this current bill falls short”. Today’s override makes Indiana the 17th state to pass legislation banning transgender youth from sports.
“As a former USWNT player who grew up in Indiana, I’m disheartened to see my home state pass a bill banning transgender kids from playing the sport they love,” said former pro soccer player and Athlete Ally Ambassador Lori Lindsey. “Participating in sports forever changed my life for the better, and I believe that every child — including our transgender youth — deserve to have that same access and opportunity.”
“We are devastated to see yet another state pass legislation banning transgender youth from experiencing the lifesaving power of sport,” said Anne Lieberman, Director of Policy and Programs at Athlete Ally. “Especially as we enter Pride month, it is heartbreaking to see transgender youth used as pawns for political gain. We want trans youth in Indiana, and across the country, to know that they are loved, and that we will never stop fighting for their right to be safe, welcome and included in all parts of their life, especially and including sports.”