A group of transgender teenagers in New Hampshire has filed a lawsuit against the state over a ban on transgender athletes in school sports. The teens, along with their families and advocacy groups, argue that the ban is discriminatory and unconstitutional.
The ban, which was passed by the state legislature earlier this year, prohibits transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports and transgender boys from participating in boys’ sports. Supporters of the ban claim that it is necessary to ensure fair competition in sports, but opponents argue that it is a violation of transgender rights.
The lawsuit, filed in federal court, alleges that the ban violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, which guarantees equal protection under the law. The plaintiffs argue that transgender athletes should be allowed to compete in sports based on their gender identity, rather than their sex assigned at birth.
The lawsuit also cites a recent Supreme Court ruling that held that discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity is prohibited under federal law. The plaintiffs argue that the ban on transgender athletes is a form of discrimination based on gender identity, and therefore is unconstitutional.
The New Hampshire Attorney General’s office has not yet responded to the lawsuit, but a spokesperson for the state’s governor has stated that they believe the ban is “appropriate and necessary to ensure fairness in sports.”
The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for transgender rights in sports, as similar bans are being proposed in other states across the country. Supporters of transgender rights hope that the court will overturn the ban and allow transgender athletes to compete based on their gender identity.
Source
Photo credit news.google.com
