The ongoing debate over transgender athletes in California’s girls’ sports reached new heights recently, marked by a significant protest and heightened tensions surrounding a controversial track and field outcome. Graduates and athletes, including Hadeel Hazameh from Jurupa Valley High School, responded to a Title IX investigation initiated by the Trump administration, focusing on the treatment of transgender athletes in the state.
The conflict was reignited over the weekend, notably during a large-scale demonstration outside a California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) council meeting in Long Beach. This protest came in the wake of a contentious decision at a girls’ track and field meet, further positioning California as a focal point in the national discussion regarding transgender policies in sports.
Activists, including those from the California Family Council, organized a rally on February 6, 2026, which they claimed was their largest to date. Female athletes and their families voiced concerns about the CIF’s policies, which they argue disadvantage biological women in sports. A total of 16 speakers, comprising high school athletes, family members, and political figures, took to the podium, with many speeches gaining traction online.
During the rally, Celeste Duyst, an athlete from Arroyo Grande High School, recounted a troubling incident involving a transgender athlete in her locker room. Hazameh, who graduated early after voicing her concerns about a transgender teammate, also shared her experiences. Prominent political figures from both sides of the aisle attended the event, including California GOP Assemblymembers Kate Sanchez and David Tangipa, who offered support to the athletes.
In contrast, Democrat Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal filmed a Facebook video mocking the protesters, stating that Republicans present “don’t actually care about women.” Inside the CIF meeting, attendees expressed their views passionately, but many activists claimed that council members did not engage with their concerns.
Singer and Los Angeles mayoral candidate Tish Hyman delivered a stirring address condemning the CIF’s handling of the situation, asserting that civil rights should not be used to impose policies perceived as harmful to female athletes. Reese Hogan, a student from Crean Lutheran High School, spoke about her repeated experiences of competing against a male athlete in girls’ track and field events, highlighting the systemic challenges faced by female competitors.
While supporters of transgender inclusion in sports also presented their viewpoints, including testimony from a local transgender student, many of these voices reportedly went unaddressed by the CIF council members. Activists from the ACLU of Southern California emphasized that sports should be inclusive for all students, arguing that the focus should be on fostering participation rather than exclusion.
The day following the meeting, a notable victory was recorded when a transgender athlete from Jurupa Valley High School claimed first place in the girls’ triple jump at the VS California Winter Championships. This athlete also secured second in the girls’ long jump, igniting further discussions across social media platforms about the implications of such outcomes.
Critics of California’s policies have not remained silent. Notable figures like Dr. Naomi Wolfe, a New York Times bestselling author, and Sharron Davies, an Olympic medalist from Great Britain, have expressed their disapproval online, with Davies highlighting disparities in performance metrics between male and female athletes.
Despite the increasing scrutiny and calls for change, California Governor Gavin Newsom has not taken definitive action on the issue. He previously acknowledged the unfairness of male participation in girls’ sports during a podcast appearance but has deferred responsibility to the CIF and state legislature. The California state legislature recently blocked two bills aimed at reversing the policies allowing males to compete in girls’ sports, with all Democrats voting against them.
As this debate continues to unfold, the U.S. Department of Education has announced 19 investigations into schools suspected of violating Title IX, with Jurupa Unified School District identified as a key focus. Meanwhile, San Jose State University faces scrutiny for its handling of transgender athlete Blaire Fleming, risking federal funding if it fails to comply with resolution terms.
The ongoing discussions and protests reflect a broader national dialogue surrounding gender, sports, and equity, as communities grapple with the implications of policies that impact young athletes’ experiences and opportunities.
