A recent volleyball match loss has caused a lot of discussion. Because of transgender player Blair Fleming, the University of Nevada, Reno, and Utah State University had to give up their games against San Jose State University.
The University of Nevada, Reno said it was committed to equality and inclusion and that the players’ choice to forfeit was their own and didn’t reflect the university’s position. The school follows Nevada law and NCAA rules, which makes sure that everyone feels welcome.
The Wolf Pack team said they were forfeiting because they wanted to stand with other universities and expect safety and fair competition. Senior player Sia Liilii also expressed her anger, pointing out that it happened right before a very important game.
View this post on Instagram
The forfeiture by Utah State University backed a lawsuit against Blair, which said she broke laws that make it illegal for transgender people to play women’s sports. Similar rules exist all over the country, which causes a lot of debate.
Advocacy groups, like Equality California, say the forfeitures are transphobic and should not happen. Some other schools, like Southern Utah, Boise State, and Wyoming, have also thrown out games.
This event makes us think about how to make games more fair, inclusive, and equal. Will this argument lead to change or keep people from getting along?
