NEW YORK, NY, June 30, 2026—The Supreme Court’s decision in West Virginia v. B.P.J. and Little v. Hecox is a heartbreaking injustice to transgender youth, their families, and our entire community.

This ruling does not create a nationwide ban against transgender youth participating in sports. Bans on the participation of trans athletes can only be enacted at the state level. In New York State, the rights of transgender people are protected by our state constitution, which makes banning transgender youth from participating in sports illegal.

Transgender women and girls are not threats to our sports teams or to our communities. This ban directly targets transgender women and girls, but its effects impact every single young athlete. Under the guise of “protecting children,” this ruling will result in the exclusion and harassment of children regardless of their gender identity. 

Transgender athletes represent less than 1.5% of all athletes nationwide. Politicians and transphobic “activists” have targeted this vulnerable population with a vicious fear-mongering campaign. Instead of targeting transgender children and inciting division, we should remove barriers for girls in sports and focus on ensuring that everyone has access to fair opportunities, essential needs, and equal respect.

Transgender youth deserve to participate in sports the same way all children do. Banning them from sports removes opportunities for confidence-building, skill-building, friendships, and joy. 

The Center will continue to create and protect spaces for transgender youth to find community, experience belonging, and gain valuable life skills. Despite the obstacles we face, The Center continues to fight for transgender youth to exist safely and happily in our world.

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