Debate over safety and fairness
SPOKANE VALLEY – The Central Valley School Board held a special meeting on Monday, Nov. 18 to discuss transgender athletes in girls’ sports, drawing a large and vocal crowd. After a lengthy discussion, the board passed a resolution and sent a letter asking the Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) to reconsider its current policy, which allows athletes to play on teams that match their gender identity.
The resolution passed 3-1, with one member abstaining. A similar letter to the WIAA and state lawmakers was approved 4-1. Both documents argue that transgender girls competing in girls’ sports could lead to safety risks and unfair competition.
“There have been clear instances… demonstrating that biological males, regardless of their gender identity, threaten injury against biological females when competing,” the resolution reads.
Cindy McMullen, the lone dissenting vote, argued that prioritizing inclusivity aligns with the district values, and stated that she still has hope the district can find ways for all students to compete in safe, equitable, and fair competition.
The meeting drew a packed room and featured over an hour of public comments, with most attendees supporting the resolution. Some speakers voiced concerns about lost scholarships and safety risks for cisgender athletes. A smaller group defended transgender athletes, citing the importance of inclusion and the mental health challenges transgender youth face.
The WIAA is expected to review its policy during its annual amendment process. Similar resolutions have been passed by other districts, including Mead.
Clare is an Eastern Washington University graduate and a reporter at Free Press Publishing.
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