“Trans+ and non-binary inclusivity in sport is not up for debate. It’s here. Let’s demand it.” - Cal Calamia (first winner of the non-binary division of the San Francisco Marathon)

Running makes me feel empowered, at home in my body, exhilarated to be alive : similar things it brings to most runners, but three fundamental things that a very small percentage of queer & trans+ people have the privilege of experiencing. Especially when registration forms for wellness events, like community races, are exclusive of gender non-confirming people ! 

Multiple races in NC - the City of Oaks Marathon, the Bull City Race Fest, and the Tarheel 10 miler- are all hosted by an umbrella corporation called Capstone Events. The “About Me” section of their website touts diversity and an alignment with community & continuous improvement. Which looks lovely… however, upon attempting to register for one of these races, dissonance sets in. Registrants are presented with a binary category for gender- response mandatory- a blatant exclusion of gender expansive participants.

Engaging in organized races is already made inaccessible for many people through economic barriers- transphobia shouldn’t be on the list! Across the US, 635 anti-trans bills have been introduced this year. In NC, there are 7 active bills. This is legislation that seeks to block trans+ people from receiving basic healthcare, education, legal recognition, and the right to publicly exist. Trans+ people need joy, bodily safety, & community now more than ever!

The Triangle is my home-town, and I want to run this race feeling at home in my body. 

The creation of a non-binary division would be a win for everyone involved! There are millions of non-binary and gender non-conforming people in the US, with dishearteningly high rates of suicide. One of the quickest ways to improve your mental health? Exercise !! Carving out spaces for trans+ and non-binary runners is affirming in life-giving ways. It says, “Look! you belong here. Your body, your movement is meant to be here.” All of us have bodies that deserve to play and move in community.  

Let's create a sporting environment that uplifts, rather than excludes. That celebrates, rather than silences. It will send a powerful message of acceptance and recognition from a community celebrated for its unity. 

I hope you’ll sign this petition, and stand beside me for an inclusive, fair, and welcoming racing experience for everyone. #LETTHEMRUN

https://www.runnersworld.com/runners-stories/a60536342/cal-calamia-running-inclusion/