Bill to Ban Trans Athletes Passes By Lucy Robinson, Student Life Editor
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n Indiana bill to prohibit transgender girls from playing on female school sports teams in elementary through high school has passed in the House and Senate and is awaiting the signature of Gov. Eric Holcomb, as of March 7. Bill author Rep. Michelle Davis said the reasoning behind House Bill 1041 is that, “female athletes deserve fair competition and an even playing field. This bill ensures just that, a fair and equal opportunity to compete for Hoosiers now and in the future.” There has been pushback on the bill from many LGBTQ+ activists and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), saying that this bill seeks to discriminate against transgender youth. The ACLU also has concerns about the effect of this bill on the mental health of transgender youth. In regard to these mental health concerns Rep. Davis said, “Of course, mental health, I empathize with anyone who goes through mental health issues. I see it’s real for all students and all Hoosiers today, but this bill is about maintaining fair competition for female sports.” Nixe Negrin, junior, is a transgender student at ZCHS. Negrin, who was inter-
“I am not an athlete, but I know what it’s like to fight the system and it’s not easy.” - Nixe Negrin, junior
ACLU of Indiana protests House Bill 1041 at the State House on Feb. 16. photo provided by the ACLU
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