In a world where we continually push for a more inclusive society, it’s heartening to see brave students and school officials taking a stand against discriminatory policies. One such instance is currently unfolding at the Cal Maritime Academy, where school officials have severed ties with the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) to protest a policy that effectively bans transgender athletes from competing in women’s sports.
The NAIA’s policy contradicts California state law, which prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, among other characteristics, in any post-secondary institution receiving state funding. Moreover, it conflicts with the California State University system’s interim non-discrimination policy, which defines discrimination as conduct resulting in the denial or limitation of services, benefits, or opportunities based on a person’s actual or perceived protected status.
Echoing the sentiments of many students, interim president Michael Dumont announced the decision to withdraw from the NAIA, a clear and powerful statement to fight against the exclusionary policy. In Dumont’s words, “All students and employees have the right to participate fully in CSU programs, activities, admission, and employment free from discrimination…”
While Cal Maritime is the only institution to publicly leave NAIA over this policy, we shouldn’t overlook that other schools, such as Bethany College in Kansas, have openly opposed it and refused to follow it. Similarly, UC Merced announced its transition to NCAA’s Division II earlier this year, although it didn’t cite the transgender policy as the reason for its departure.
The NCAA, unlike NAIA, remains an inspiration for many aspiring athletes. It reaffirms its commitment to promoting Title IX and fair competition for all student-athletes in all NCAA championships. Inclusivity in sports has been a part of the NCAA’s policy since 2010, demonstrating its proactive approach to tackling gender identity discrimination in athletics.
At Cal Maritime Academy, it isn’t just the officials fighting for a more inclusive environment. In 2021, a group of passionate students protested against a culture of homophobia, transphobia, and racism on campus. Their voices were heard, and President Dumont responded by implementing measures to foster inclusivity, such as gender-inclusive housing and updated policies to protect students’ rights.
Unfortunately, there’s still a considerable amount of work to be done. A 2017 survey by the Human Rights Campaign revealed that fewer than 15% of all transgender boys and transgender girls play sports in the US. Meanwhile, nearly 25 states maintain laws barring transgender women and girls from competing in women’s or girls’ sports.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by these statistics, but we must remember that laws are in place to protect our LGBTQIA+ communities from such discrimination. If any member of the LGBTQIA+ community experiences discrimination, they should remember that they are not alone and should reach out to an experienced Gender Identity Discrimination Attorney for help.
We celebrate the bravery of students, school officials, and all those stepping forward to challenge discriminatory policies. As we continue this fight together, let’s not lose sight of our ultimate goal: a world where everyone, regardless of their gender identity, is given equal opportunities.
