On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear two cases—one being argued by West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey and another by Idaho Attorney General Raúl Labrador, both with the assistance of Alliance Defending Freedom—asking if states can protect their female athletes by giving them a protected sports category. States should most certainly be permitted to do so.
The Supreme Court has already recognized that the differences “between men and women…remain cause for celebration,” and that when we ignore “even our most basic biological differences” we make efforts at equality “superficial” and “disserve” them. Few contexts highlight the inherent differences between men and women like competitive athletics. It’s vital to recognize and celebrate biological differences in the sports context to afford both men and women real, competitive opportunities.
Thankfully, we have a law that aims to do just that. Passed more than 50 years ago, Title IX has made strides in increasing athletic opportunities for females, who historically had minimal avenues to compete in school sports compared to males.
Title IX’s efforts were met with great success. Between 1972 and today, there has been a 1,000% increase in athletic opportunities for high-school girls. The benefits extend beyond the playing field, opening doors for higher education through scholarships. Women make up 44% of college athletes and receive 41% of athletic scholarships; this is remarkable considering that women had negligible opportunities for sports scholarships before Title IX.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member