Transgender Action Online

SarahEL

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From: Minnesota

Registered: 2023-03-09

Posts: 170

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Towards a Unified Approach: Gender Inclusion in Sports

Sports have long served as a platform for showcasing human potential, breaking barriers, and fostering inclusivity. A whole generation of young gender incongruent people are missing out on this vital aspect of their formative years. Later on, they are being denied competition and exercise and have a dismissive stance on any sort of participation.

The Paralympics, a global event dedicated to athletes with disabilities. Has always amazed me with it's spirit of inclusiveness and the celebration of diverse capabilities. As society progresses towards greater gender equality, the methodology used in these games could inspire similar efforts to accommodate all genders in sports at all ages and all levels. I think we need to start a discussion on how the principles and practices of some structure and organisation of sport might be adapted to create a more inclusive sporting environment for all genders without diminishing either the participation, the engagement or the entertainment.

The Paralympics were established to provide athletes with disabilities a platform to compete at the highest level. This movement has grown into a global phenomenon that emphasizes the abilities of athletes rather than their disabilities. The classification system used in the Paralympics is a cornerstone of this inclusivity, ensuring fair competition by grouping athletes based on the nature and extent of their impairments. This system is meticulous and dynamic, designed to level the playing field. Athletes undergo rigorous evaluations to determine the category that best matches their functional abilities. This system, though complex, has been successful in creating equitable competition and is saleable from rigorous high level sports (like the Olympics) to kids playing soccer at school.

Here are several strategies that I am just spit balling but could be drawn from the Paralympic model:

Adapting a classification system for gender inclusivity involves recognizing the diverse spectrum of gender identities. This system would classify athletes based on their gender identity and physiological attributes relevant to the sport. Such a classification could ensure that all athletes compete on an equal footing, acknowledging the unique challenges faced by each gender. However, this raises questions about the criteria for classification and how to balance physiological differences with gender identity. It would need to be studied carefully and constantly modified - but it would not segregate chess players or 'frisbee golfers' to anything like it would 110m hurdlers. I imagine maybe one category for chess champions - but 3, maybe 4 for high end gymnastics for example.

The Paralympics are governed by inclusive policies that promote participation from all athletes with disabilities. Similarly, sports organizations should implement policies that explicitly support gender inclusivity. This includes anti-discrimination policies, equal access to facilities, and the inclusion of non-binary (non-gendered) categories in competitions. A discussion is needed on how to create and enforce these policies effectively across different sports and cultural contexts.

As always educational programs will played a crucial role. They were fundamental in the success of the Paralympics by raising awareness about disabilities and promoting acceptance. To achieve gender inclusivity, similar initiatives are essential. These programs should focus on gender diversity, the importance of inclusion, and the benefits of a diverse sporting environment. How can such educational initiatives be designed and implemented to foster genuine understanding and support?

Athletes in the Paralympics benefit from tailored support structures, including specialized coaching, equipment, and medical care much like their able bodied counterparts. Gender-inclusive sports should adopt similar support systems, providing resources that cater to the needs of all genders. This includes access to gender-sensitive training programs, mental health support, and facilities that respect privacy and dignity. What specific support structures are necessary, and how can they be standardized across sports?

While the Paralympic model offers valuable insights, there are unique challenges in implementing a similar system for gender inclusivity. The primary challenge lies in developing a universally accepted classification system for gender, given the complexity and fluidity of gender identities. Moreover, societal attitudes towards gender inclusivity in sports can vary widely, necessitating a gradual and culturally sensitive approach. That could be a category system that is focused on biology and biochemical history rather than making hundreds of labels. Factors such as hormone levels, date of puberty etc. Something that could demonstratably effect an outcome should be considered and if it does not fit into one categorisation, then make 2 or 3 or so on.. But this is only at top level sporting events, for most people it will have little impact. I will still be the last to be picked for a football team, but will go along to make up the numbers!!..

So, there are many models and ways forward to make sport fairer and more inclusive. The Paralympic model is one and they have set a precedent for inclusivity by creating a competitive environment that celebrates diverse abilities. By adopting similar principles and defining our own, sports can become more inclusive for all genders, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to compete fairly and with dignity. The journey towards gender inclusivity in sports requires commitment, innovation, and a willingness to embrace diversity. Drawing from the successes elsewhere, the sporting world can move closer to a future where every athlete, regardless of gender, is celebrated for their unique talents and contributions.

I would like This to serve as a starting point for further discussion on how best to achieve this goal, inviting input from athletes, organizations, policymakers, and the broader community. I post it here and welcome any thoughts you have - I have/will also send it/post it to people in influence (please give me suggestions) and in other areas of the internet.. I do feel this is an important discussion.

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Sarahel-slang term: Coming from the Gewada region language in Ethiopia
-when two people are very close friends, it is said to be Sarahel
Ex. Those two really love each other, they are sarahel