There has been a lot of back and forth in recent months on whether or not transgender women should be allowed to compete in women’s sports. Brittney Griner, a star in the Women’s National Basketball Association, has spoken out on the topic, claiming that athletes of all gender identities should be treated equally. Griner, who was detained in Russia for 10 months before being allowed to return to the United States, voiced her opinion during a news conference. She said it was wrong to prevent transgender women from playing in leagues for women of the same gender and that it was wrong to force anybody to choose between their passion and their identity. For Griner, opening up play to everyone means making sure that everyone can feel comfortable being themselves without fear of reprisal. She intends to utilize her celebrity to protest legislation that would restrict transgender athletes’ ability to compete. Many people on social media agreed with Griner’s point that sports should be welcoming to people of all backgrounds and identities. Her brave attitude is a reminder that people of all genders should be afforded the same freedom to follow their interests.
