Former collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines, one of Lia Thomas’s opponents, joined other athletes in Georgia to push for a legislative ban on transgender women participating in women’s sports. The push comes in response to the ongoing national debate regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in competitive sports. Gaines discussed her experience competing against Thomas and the feelings of unfairness she felt, stating, ‘We’re here to show that biological males competing in female sports is a threat to women’s sports.’ These sentiments were echoed by other athletes who testified in front of lawmakers at the Georgia State Capitol. The proposed legislation, known as the ‘Save Girls’ Sports Act,’ co-sponsored by State Representative Will Wade and others, aims to prevent individuals born male from participating in women’s athletics at all levels, from K-12 through college. Wade emphasized the bill’s importance by saying, ‘We want to protect the right of these girls to compete fairly.’ House Speaker Jon Burns introduced the bill which has sparked discussions among lawmakers, athletes, and the community about the implications on sports and fairness. Opponents of the bill argue that it discriminates against transgender athletes and raise concerns regarding its impact on inclusivity in sports. The ongoing discourse continues as the bill heads to committee for review.
Former Opponents of Lia Thomas Advocate for Georgia’s Transgender Sports Bill
