Athlete Ally Celebrates UT Victory for Trans Inclusion
August 19, 2022 — Athlete Ally responded today to news that the Third District Court of Utah has issued an order blocking enforcement of H.B. 11, which barred all transgender girls from playing on girls’ sports teams. The court concluded that “the Defendants do not offer persuasive reasons to categorically ban all transgender girls from competing on girls’ teams.” The court noted that its decision will not mean that every transgender girl is able to play on girls’ teams, but rather that every transgender girl will have an opportunity to do so.
“My husband and I are very relieved by this decision,” said Debbie Roe, a parent Plaintiff in the lawsuit. “We are grateful the court understood how much harm this law has caused, which has been a huge source of stress and trauma for our child. Our daughter just wants the same chance as other kids to make friends and play on the team she loves. Today’s ruling gives her the opportunity to do that.”
“We are incredibly heartened to see the Utah court ruling in favor of inclusion, equality and compassion,” said Joanna Hoffman, Director of Communications at Athlete Ally. “Transgender youth in Utah – and everywhere – simply want the same opportunity to play sports with their friends as any other children. We are grateful to ACLU of Utah, NCLR, and all advocates in Utah who are leading this fight.”