New York AG Challenges Transgender Sports Ban in Nassau County

NY Attorney General sends cease-and-desist order to county executive over transgender sports ban | CNNCNN, By By Michelle Watson and Eric Levenson, on March 3, 2024

https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/03/us/newyork-nassau-trans-athletes/index.html 
The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.11.4 featuring Cynthia , Eli, Helen Greene and Jonathan Roudabush

New York Attorney General Leticia James demanded that Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman rescind a ban on transgender athletes from competing in women's and girls' sports. Blakeman's executive order, signed on February 22nd, prohibited transgender athletes from participating in such sports at county facilities, citing fairness concerns. The ban affected over 100 venues under the Department of Parks, Recreation, and Museums.
James asserted that the order violated state civil and human rights laws, subjecting female athletes to intrusive questioning. Blakeman defended the order, arguing that biological males shouldn't compete in girls' or women's leagues. However, he noted that transgender athletes could still participate in all-boys or co-ed leagues.

Critics argued that such bans isolate and stigmatize transgender athletes and lack empirical evidence supporting claims of unfair advantage. A 2017 literature review found no consistent research on transgender athletic advantages. The conversation around transgender athletes often lacks seriousness, dominated by bigotry and cherry-picked anecdotes.

The dispute reflects broader societal debates on gender identity and sports policy. Blakeman's order is seen as part of a coordinated attack on marginalized groups, perpetuated by right-wing demagogues. Legal action from James and the National Center for Transgender Equality seeks to protect transgender athletes' rights.

In conclusion, the issue highlights the ongoing struggle for transgender rights and the importance of legal challenges to discriminatory policies.

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