Although Title IX aims to secure sex equality in education by prohibiting discrimination based on sex, it makes an exception for sport by allowing men and women to compete in separate categories. This sports exception is widely viewed as necessary for fair competition due to physiological differences that bear on athletic performance.
Recent concerns about transgender athletes challenge this model. Out of a concern for inclusion, many argue that transgender athletes should be permitted to compete in the category that corresponds to their gender identity. Others worry that (unconditional) inclusion undermines fair competition.
How should we balance the values of inclusion and fairness in the context of sports competition? The panelists in this Forum will consider these values in light of evidence regarding how biological factors contribute to performance, focusing on the question: When, if ever, should transgender athletes be permitted to compete according to their gender identity?
SSI is honored to partner with the Center for Ethics and Human Value on this event.
