Change the U.S. Figure Skating Gender Bias Rule

Gender Bias Dance Rules

Dear Chair Heather E. Nemier:

It has been brought to our attention that the U.S. Figure Skating Dance Rules are gender bias. The object of this petition is to change the U.S.Figure Skating gender specific rules to two people. The U.S. Figure Skating Rule book states that, "A dance couple shall be composed of a lady and a man. In the case of compulsory dance tests, it is preferred that a couple be composed of a lady and a man. However a test may be taken with the same gender partner, provided that partner is the test skater's same gender coach." (The 2011 Official U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook, 4211 Basic Dance Rules, Page 293).

Yet, the Pairs Free Skate --Generally 4032 Rule states, "In pairs skating competitions only pairs of the same composition (lady and man, two ladies, or two men) may compete against each other." (The 2010 Official U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook, 4032 Pairs Free Skate --Generally, Page 260).

We petition the Rules Committee to change the 4211 Basic Dance Rules and make all other rules without gender bias. Specifically, that two people no matter what their gender may compete and test. This not only affects Gay Rights, but indirectly affects Women's Rights because there is an extraordinary lack of men in Dance.

Thank you for your expedient attention to this matter.

Sincerely yours,

[Your name]