Empire State Today

High school students across New York are preparing for a walkout on October 24 to protest the participation of transgender athletes in girls' sports. The event, called "Walk Off for Fairness Day," is organized by The Coalition to Protect Kids, which is supported by the Catholic Church and the New York Republican and Conservative parties.

Hannah Pompeo, a soccer player from Eden High School near Buffalo, expressed her concerns: “It’s not right for boys to compete against girls in sports. It’s a huge disadvantage for girls.” Similarly, Millie McCormack from Somers High School stated, “I don’t think it’s right for men to be in our safe spaces. We worked hard for places on our teams.”

The protest also opposes Proposition 1 on the November 5 ballot, known as the "Equal Rights Amendment." This measure would add language to the state constitution prohibiting discrimination based on several factors including gender identity. Opponents argue that this could allow transgender athletes born male to compete against females.

Ayesha Kreutz of Coalition to Protect Kids-NY remarked, “Girls are being systematically canceled in this state, and ‘Walk Off for Fairness Day’ will give them a safe opportunity to make their voices heard.”

In April, draft guidance from the state Education Department suggested allowing trans boys and boys without an equivalent team option at their schools to join girls' sports teams. These guidelines have been paused due to public opposition.

State Republican Party chairman Ed Cox criticized Prop 1 saying it could undermine Title IX protections by allowing biological males constitutional rights to compete on girls' teams. He noted that a New York Times/Siena poll showed 66% opposition among New Yorkers.

Gerry Kassar of the state Conservative Party added his disbelief over debating whether girls' sports should remain exclusive to female athletes.