Inspired by my older brother and sister, both Waukesha North Star graduates, I began playing lacrosse in 2021, my seventh year of school. I quickly fell in love with the sport. However, because of the Waukesha School Board's current policy opposing the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA), I had to stop playing this year because of my gender identity. It's difficult to know that many other high school transgender athletes are facing the same barriers I am, simply because existing policies under the School Board of Waukesha do not fully support all student athletes. 

According to a report by the Human Rights Campaign, transgender youth often face high levels of discrimination and stigmatization in school sports, which ultimately leads to mental health issues and a lack of participation in physical activities. A 2017 study by the Journal of Adolescent Health highlighted that participating in sports can greatly improve physical health and social well-being, reducing depression and anxiety in transgender youth by up to 40%.

The Waukesha School Board has an obligation to foster an inclusive environment where all athletes, regardless of gender identity, can compete fairly and safely. Unfortunately, many policies still force transgender athletes to choose between playing the sport they love and being true to themselves.

It's crucial that the School Board of Waukesha update its regulations to ensure all students have the same opportunities to participate in high school sports. Let us urge the Waukesha School Board to adopt comprehensive, inclusive policies that allow transgender athletes to play in accordance with their gender identity, following guidelines from the Interscholastic Athletic Association.

We are asking students, parents, and community members to sign this petition, which can help make a tangible difference in the lives of transgender athletes in Waukesha high schools, including myself. With your support, we can push for a more equitable sports environment, fostering inclusivity, acceptance, fairness, and respect for all. Please join us in this important cause so I can start playing the sport I love again.