In a groundbreaking move, two teenagers are taking a stand against New Hampshire’s ban on transgender girls in sports, and they’re not stopping there. Parker Tirrell and Iris Turmelle, both passionate about sports, are challenging the state’s law that prohibits transgender athletes from participating in girls’ sports teams. But that’s not all – they’re also targeting President Donald Trump’s executive order, “Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports,” which they believe is discriminatory and unconstitutional.
The executive order, signed by Trump, gives federal agencies the power to ensure that entities receiving federal funding comply with Title IX in a way that aligns with the Trump administration’s view of “sex” as the gender someone was assigned at birth. This move has been widely criticized by LGBTQ+ advocates, who argue that it discriminates against transgender individuals and denies them their right to participate in sports.
Tirrell, a 15-year-old high school student, and Turmelle, a 14-year-old ninth-grader, are determined to fight for their rights and the rights of other transgender athletes. With the help of their families and attorneys, they’re taking on the state of New Hampshire and the Trump administration, arguing that the ban and the executive order are unfair and violate their equal protection guarantees under federal law.
The case has been ongoing since last year, when the two teens first challenged the New Hampshire law. A federal judge has already ruled that they can try out for and play on girls’ school sports teams while their case is being heard. Now, with the addition of Trump’s executive order to the lawsuit, the stakes are even higher.
The lawyers representing Tirrell and Turmelle argue that the executive order, combined with the New Hampshire law, subjects transgender girls to discrimination and denies them their right to participate in sports. They claim that this is a clear violation of Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in education programs that receive federal funding.
This case is a significant one, as it’s believed to be the first time the constitutionality of Trump’s executive order is being challenged in court. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for transgender athletes across the country, and it’s a testament to the courage and determination of Tirrell and Turmelle that they’re willing to take on this fight.
As the case moves forward, it’s essential to remember that this is not just about sports – it’s about equality, fairness, and the right of every individual to participate and thrive in their chosen activities, regardless of their gender identity. Tirrell and Turmelle are heroes for standing up for their rights, and their bravery will undoubtedly inspire others to do the same.