This week the University Interscholastic League (UIL), literally punted their nondiscrimination policy concerning athletic contests out of bounds. The UIL has proposed that a student athlete’s gender be determined by their birth certificate. This policy, if approved, would prevent transgender young people from having equal opportunities in extracurricular activities.

School-based sports are an integral part of the process of education and development of young people. Adopting fair and inclusive participation practices will allow school and athletics leaders to fulfill their commitment to create an environment in which all students can thrive, develop their full potential, and learn how to be a part of a team.

Transgender student athletes should have equal opportunity to participate in sports. That can be accomplished while also recognizing that the legitimate privacy interests of all student athletes should be protected.

The UIL should step-up and recognize that transgender young people are part of school communities across Texas and that educational leaders have a responsibility to ensure these students have access to equal opportunities in all academic, music, and athletic contests in a safe and respectful school environment.

Tell the UIL to ensure equal opportunity in all extracurricular activities, adopt fair & inclusive participation practices, and ensure that transgender students have an equal opportunity to participate.