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Fight Back Against VHSL's Anti-Trans Policy Changes
John,
On February 10th, the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Executive Committee called a last-minute meeting to discuss their response to President Trump’s executive order targeting transgender athletes. The VHSL ultimately voted to reverse their decade-long inclusive athlete participation policy, effectively banning transgender student athletes from participating in girls' sports in Virginia. In doing so, the VHSL chose to bend to political pressure over the wellbeing of Virginia students, pre-complying with a federal executive order that lacks the force of law.
This decision strips trans youth of opportunity, dignity, and belonging—and we need your voice to fight back.
It’s on us to hold the VHSL accountable for this rushed decision that was made without input from Virginians. We’re demanding that the VHSL reinstate its previous policy, which had been in place since 2014 and provided an appeals process for transgender student athletes to be able to play school sports in alignment with their gender identity. Between 2020 and 2024, 28 of 31 transgender student athlete appeal requests were approved.
The VHSL Executive Committee’s next meeting is on Wednesday, May 7th. That’s why on May 1st , Equality Virginia is hosting a lunchtime briefing to share more about the VHSL, the anti-trans policy change, the public comment process, and how you can do your part to fight back during our Week of Action. See below for details and to sign up!
“Action for Trans Athletes: What’s Happening at VHSL?” Lunchtime Briefing Sign Up! [[link removed]]
Thursday, May 1st from 12:00-12:30 PM
Virtual on Zoom
*Can’t make it on Thursday? Sign up anyway, and we’ll send you the recording and follow-up details afterwards so you can get involved.
We will also be hosting a VHSL Public Comment Workshop on Monday, May 5th from 6:00-7:00 PM to prep speakers who want to attend the May 7th VHSL meeting. More details will be shared during the lunchtime briefing, but feel free to sign up now to put the workshop on your calendar! [[link removed]]
Let’s be clear: trans youth belong in school, in sports, and in every space where their peers are welcomed. With your help, we’ll make that message impossible to ignore. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to [email protected] .
There’s no one “right” way to show up. However you choose to engage, you are part of a growing movement standing with trans youth. Together, we can—and will—turn the tide.
In solidarity,
Ariana Hamidi (they/them)
Director of Community Engagement
Kyleigh Hynes (she/her)
Director of Advocacy
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Richmond, VA 23219
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