Olympic athlete Caitlyn Jenner weighed in on the debate of transgender women playing in female sports. Jenner, who came out as transgender in 2015, says she is against the idea because she says it is unfair.
Speaking to TMZ on Saturday, the reality star was asked to provide her stance on athletes who were born male but are transitioning to female competing in female sports. The terminology the reporter used in the question was “biological boys.’
“This is a question of fairness,” Jenner, 71, responded. “That’s why I oppose biological boys who are trans competing in girls’ sports in school. It just isn’t fair and we have to protect girls’ sports in our schools.”
Later on Twitter, Jenner doubled down and said, “I’m clear about where I stand.”
Her remarks are a stark departure from her previous stance on the subject. In a June 2020 Op-Ed in Women’s Health, she wrote, “I think everybody deserves an opportunity to compete in sports, no matter who you are, no matter what your identity.”
Added Jenner, “Sports is a great place for young people to get to know themselves, and to learn about winning, losing, hard work, and dedication.”
Also receiving renewed interest is her acceptance speech at the 2015 ESPYs, where she won the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, where she said, “I also want to acknowledge all the young trans athletes who are out there – given the chance to play sports as who they really are.”
Jenner’s change of tune has been condemned by members of the trans community, especially over her choice to include “biological boys” in her response — which advocates say is damaging and offensive.
The reality star, who is a registered Republican, recently expressed intent to run in the upcoming recall election against California Governor Gavin Newsom.
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