Craig “CeCé” Telfer banned

Craig “CeCé” Telfer banned from Competing in Women’s sports

By TSR

Washington, D.C. — The recent executive order signed by former President Donald Trump, titled "Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports," has reignited discussions about the inclusion of trans-identified males in female athletic competitions. This directive, which prohibits trans-identified males from participating in women’s sports, has significant implications for athletes like CeCé Telfer (born Craig Telfer). Telfer, a biological male, was recently interviewed and claimed that there are three factors working against him: being a Black woman, a transgender woman, and a Black American. He stated that he was constantly on the verge of attack and feared for his life living in the United States. However, this is inaccurate, as Telfer is a Black man, and his male advantage has contributed to his success in competing against women. 

Supporters of Trump's executive order argue that it is essential to maintain fairness and integrity in women's sports. They contend that trans-identified males, having undergone male puberty, may retain physiological advantages such as bone density and muscle mass that hormone therapy cannot fully mitigate. This perspective suggests that allowing trans-identified males to compete in female categories undermines the level playing field that women’s sports aim to provide. In alignment with the executive order, the NCAA recently updated its policy to restrict college competitions in women's sports to athletes who are biologically female.

Advocates for the ban emphasize that the primary goal is to protect opportunities for women and girls in athletics. They assert that without such measures, the achievements and advancements made in female sports could be compromised. This stance is reflected in public opinion; a New York Times/Ipsos survey found that 79% of Americans support restricting trans-identified males from competing in female sports.

The ban on trans-identified males competing in women’s sports, as exemplified by the case of CeCé Telfer, is viewed by supporters as a measure to uphold fairness and integrity in female athletics. While acknowledging the complexities and sensitivities surrounding sex-based competition, they advocate for policies that protect the opportunities and hard-earned progress of biologically female athletes.