#but also! layshia!

[justinssportscorner]

Trudy Ring at The Advocate:

Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird, and other sports stars are urging the National Collegiate Athletic Association to allow transgender athletes to compete under their gender identity. The NCAA last revised its policy on trans athletes in 2022. For a decade previously, it allowed trans women who’ve completed a year of testosterone suppression treatment to compete alongside cisgender women. The change in 2022 let the governing body for each sport to set standards on testosterone levels. Now, after another college athletic association barred all trans women from participating in women’s sports, the star athletes and others are calling on the NCAA to stand up for inclusion. More than over 400 current and former NCAA, professional, Olympic, and Paralympic athletes sent an open letter expressing that sentiment to the NCAA Board of Governors, which is having a virtual meeting Thursday. It’s not clear if the trans policy is on the agenda, but “the end of April and beginning of May is typically a key rules-making period for the NCAA,” The Washington Post reports. The NCAA will also hold its annual inclusion forum this week.

“To deny transgender athletes the fundamental right to be who they are, to access the sport they love, and to receive the proven mental and physical health benefits of sport goes against the very principles of the NCAA’s Constitution,” says the letter. Its more well-known signers include WNBA coach Cheryl Reeve, soccer champion Megan Rapinoe, trans male swimmer Schuyler Bailar, and WNBA players Bird, Layshia Clarendon, and Brianna Turner.

Rapinoe, an ambassador for Athlete Ally, a group that advocates for LGBTQ+ equality in sports, also issued a statement through the organization: “The time is now for the NCAA and the nationwide athletic community to speak up and affirm that sports should be for everyone, including transgender athletes,” she said. “To my fellow cis women athletes: the time is now to say loud and clear that bans against trans athletes framed as ‘protecting women’s sports’ do not speak for us and do nothing to protect us. To the trans athletes fearing that they may be sidelined from the sport they love: I see you and hear you and I am WITH YOU. “ The letter continues, “Within the context of broad legislative attacks on the rights of trans people in the United States, opposition to trans athletes is driven by certain politicians who seek to control our bodies, not by science or data. Although trans exclusionary efforts claim to ‘protect women’s sports,’ in reality, they fail to address any of the real, documented threats to women in sports, namely unequal pay, failure to uphold Title IX, rampant sexual abuse and harassment of women and girl athletes, and a lack of equal resources for men’s and women’s teams (as we saw in March Madness tournaments just three years ago).”

[...] The lawsuit in question was filed in March by several current and former college athletes, alleging that the NCAA violated their rights by allowing swimmer Lia Thomas, a trans woman, to compete against cisgender women. One of the plaintiffs is Riley Gaines, who has been particularly outspoken in her opposition to trans inclusion. Gaines and Thomas tied for fifth place in the 2022 NCAA National Championships. The letter points out that four cis women beat Thomas.

The letter from athletes was accompanied by a separate letter from Athlete Ally, 53 other LGBTQ+ advocacy, gender justice, and sports organizations and 56 PFLAG chapters nationwide, plus a letter from more than 300 scholars and academics.

Megan Rapinoe, Sue Bird, and Cheryl Reeve are among the 400+ signatories to a letter via Athlete Ally urging the NCAA to stand up for trans inclusion in sports.

[gotham--fc]

I sent it because I always forget the same thing! and I agree with all your points on the cba and i just think it's so incredible to also look and see how much its grown since then. The wubble really did change everything for the wnba, and I do think if you told 2019 sue bird, layshia clarendon and nneka ogwumike when they were negotiating that there would be legit demand for charter flights in the 2023 season and that the nwsl were talking about multi year contracts worth a million they'd have died with happy shock. Can't wait to see the 2026 cba where they can take the learnings from the 2019 negotiations (and significant strides they did make in it!) And push it so much further ❤️

No you’re so right, if you had told the players way back when what is happening now they would shocked, not even just demand for charter flights or contracts, like if you had told them that arenas would sell out for them and that millions of tv viewers would be watching and the media attention they would getting, it’s crazy to look at how much things have grown in just a few short years and knowing that they’re only going to grow exponentially more and more in the coming years

[mysticscrystalrevelation]

Game 29 Review Fri, August 23 7:30pm EDT Los Angeles @ Washington

Starting: WASH: Atkins, Austin, Dolson, Sykes, Vanloo (Samuelson knee injury) LA: Dangerfield, Hamby, Jackson, Stevens, Talbot

1st Quarter Wow, I haven't seen Azurá play in so long. The Sparks have a ton of injuries. We know the feeling. They have Steph Talbot marking Ariel tonight after her hot streak last game. Julie Vanloo is getting the start over Shatori versus the smaller Dangerfield. Nice D by JVL but it's not enough to stop an excellent two-person game by Dangerfield and Hamby. Julie goes back the other way and throws up a silly off-balance shot that of course goes in. Rickea Jackson is responsible for most of the offense thus far for LA. I'm sad that we won't get to enjoy the JVL to MHA connection anymore. One of many things we'll miss about Myisha's trade. In a bizarre sequence, Aaliyah appears to toss the ball over her own back, lose it and fall down, but she chases down the block! Engstler subs in and drains a 3. Jackson answers right in Ariel's face, wow. Very impressive. "If you haven't seen her play you need to get with it," says Christy. Earl for 3. DC is playing better defense than LA, but missing a couple more shots. Sug Sutton debuts, coming in for Earl. I was wondering what position she might fill. Sug takes the ball down for DC instead of Jado or Shatori who are also on the floor. Things are getting a little chippy as the game stays tight. 22-21.

2nd Quarter Oof, several opportunities but we're not cashing in. Finally, Shatori makes it happen. I am seeing new offensive plays. At least three attempted bounce passes inside have gone straight to LA players. From the vantage point of my couch, there are a lot of other open options. There's so much space if we can plan on making the extra pass. Stef is quietly facilitating. This game is more loosely reffed than most and I am in favor so far. Ask me again the 4th quarter. The Julie Vanlooper goes up again and finds net. Slim is starting to feel herself against her former team with 14 already. The Eurostep has entered the chat. Another great play ending in an Aaliyah layup. JVL is fouled, doesn't get the whistle, yells FOUL and gets a tech. Eric calls timeout. Apparently JVL apologized to the ref? This is an interesting game. Lots of movement, good pace, close contest, not too many stoppages. 38-41.

3rd Quarter Dangerfield is taking advantage of little DC errors to create turnovers. Eric calls time to regroup. For our part, some good disruption hasn't brought results yet. I'm enjoying this number 7 matchup between Steph Talbot and Ariel. Both teams are pushing tempo to their detriment in my opinion. The 3-ball is picking up from the first half for the Stics. Shakira is playing amazing for apparently being sick. She just went to the bench and definitely looks under the weather. It really surprises me how few minutes Kia Nurse is playing for the Sparks. Especially with Layshia injured. Ariel is taking the scoring on her back. Yikes we switched to rugby for a minute there. It's been exciting in that the pace is high and the turnovers are mostly from lost balls/deflections/throw aways but that's not a good exciting. 54-55.

4th Quarter Sweet play for the Mystics' opening offensive stand—Slim to Shakira. Now Shatori gets a block and we run it again. $$$. Slim has been shooting very well tonight. LA, not so much. Hamby steals, Slim gets down and blocks the shot, Shakira saves it, Jado heaves it to Engstler for the layup. Whoo! Now Shakira and Jade joint takeaway and runout. It's a 10-point lead and the house is rocking. Momentum? Late in game? I don't know her. Quick 4 points for LA out of a timeout to cut the energy. Our hands have been everywhere knocking and grabbing the ball, especially (as always) Ariel Atkins. 8-point lead with 2 minutes left. Odyssey Sims is plug and play. It's crazy she didn't have a season contract. Shoutout also to Rae Burrell and Zia Cooke who have made their minutes count. Meanwhile, Sykes has a career high 27 points. Earl hits a 3 off a kickout from Slim. Shakira gets a tech. Now she blocks Yueru! Game over. Mystics win! We definitely had our moments, but both teams shot atrociously from 3. 80-74 final.

[thej320]

Week 7: Transgender & Non-Binary Representations in Sports

Layshia Claredon

The narrative of inclusivity in sports has been significantly shaped by many courageous individuals, and one of those being Layshia Clarendon, whose presence in professional basketball challenges traditional norms and pushes the boundaries towards a more inclusive environment. Clarendon, a non-binary and transgender athlete, has navigated the complexities of identity and professional sports with grace and advocacy. Their decision to undergo top surgery and publicly embrace their non-binary identity marks a critical point of representation in sports (Bennett). This action not only highlights the personal aspect of their journey but also sets a precedent for acceptance and support within the sports community, encouraging others to acknowledge and embrace diversity in all its forms, beautifully. Clarendon's impact extends beyond their personal achievements on the court. They have been an outspoken advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, using their platform to discuss issues that affect non-binary and trans individuals. This advocacy is crucial in a time when sports institutions are still grappling with how to handle gender diversity. Clarendon's visibility and voice have prompted important conversations about inclusion of players, mental health, and the support needed from teams and leagues to ensure that all athletes can compete safely and successfully.

Another pioneer of embracing gender identity is Caitlyn Jenner. Caitlyn Jenner's public transition in 2015 brought transgender issues into mainstream conversation, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the transgender community. Jenner's story is particularly compelling because of her history as an Olympic gold medalist, which gave her a unique platform to reach a wide audience. Her transition, detailed poignantly in her Vanity Fair interview, was a watershed moment for public awareness and acceptance of transgender people. Jenner has expressed that her decision to transition was driven by a need to align her external existence with her internal identity, regardless of the public scrutiny that followed (Sawyer).

Since her transition, Jenner has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights, using her visibility to challenge stereotypes and educate the public about transgender issues. Her involvement in various campaigns and television series has helped to keep the conversation about transgender rights and challenges in the public eye. Jenner's activism demonstrates how influential figures can utilize their platforms to effect change and foster understanding across a broad audience. All of this shows the importance of continued advocacy and education on this topic.

The journeys of Layshia Clarendon and Caitlyn Jenner underline the critical need for continued advocacy and education in sports and society at large. While their stories are inspiring, they also remind us that the path to true inclusivity is berarded with challenges. Sports organizations, from youth leagues to professional teams, must develop policies that protect and affirm the rights of all athletes, including those who are transgender or non-binary. Education about gender diversity should be integrated into athletic training and management courses to cultivate an environment of respect and support.

As we all know, the media plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions about transgender and non-binary individuals. By promoting stories like those of Clarendon and Jenner, the media can help normalize transgender identities and experiences, thereby reducing stigma and promoting a culture of acceptance. The courage of athletes like Layshia Clarendon and public figures like Caitlyn Jenner in sharing their personal stories provides a beacon of hope for many in the transgender community. Their advocacy not only enriches their sports but also contributes significantly to the broader movement towards equality and understanding. As society continues to evolve, the stories of these remarkable individuals will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive future in sports and beyond. Their legacies, marked by resilience and advocacy, will inspire future generations to carry forward the torch of diversity and acceptance.

Sources:

[wespeakglobal]

(via Layshia Clarendon | WNBA Player | Pride LGBTQ Speaker)

Layshia Clarendon is a guard currently playing for the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA. They are known for being the first openly non-binary and transgender WNBA player, serving as an inspiration to many.

A San Bernardino native, Clarendon attended the University of California, Berkeley, where they spent the whole four years playing for the Golden Bears. Clarendon was the leader of the team, dominating the 2012-13 season with a 28-2 record (excluding the Pac-12 games), resulting in a Final Four appearance in the 2013 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament.

Clarendon was then selected 9th overall in the 2013 WNBA Draft by the Indiana Fever, reaching the WNBA Finals in their third season. They also became an All Star in 2017, a year after moving to the Atlanta Dream.

Clarendon has used their platform to speak out in support of LGBTQ+ people in sports, wishing to “open closet doors for women across sports”. They won Outsports’ “Female Hero of the Year” in 2015. Clarendon also became the first WNBA player to complete a top surgery.

[secondary-analog-interface]

rachel banham waived by minny!

does that mean rennia davis could get healthy soon or are they gonna actually keep layshia?

[a-real-goblin]

it’s be sad about women’s basketball hours lads I’m a real jock now

[female-buckets]

Ooohhh...do spill the tea!! What did Layisha say about Sue? Weren't they teammates during the 2018 USA basketball run? And also kinda awkward seeing as Layisha's wife is more or less Pinoe's manager/agent/helper person. Guess Sue rose above it. Another thing to love about her!

During the 2017 ASG, a lot of the media talk was "wow It's great that Sue's had this big comeback. There aren't many elite point guards in the league right now"

Layshia took offense. She singled Sue out and promised to have better All-Star game stats than her. Well, that didn't happen lol.

Then in 2020, there was some incident where NY Liberty players were talking shit about Sue at IMG academy. I don't know all the details of that situation. But Layshia is the common denominator in both cases.

I wouldn't say Sue necessarily "rose above it" though. It's more like all that stuff is so far beneath Sue she doesn't even acknowledge it. She deals with Layshia in a political context. But in a basketball context, Layshia isn't even on her radar.

Also, when I say political context I don't really mean US politics. I mean sports media politics. That's the political arena where Sue and Layshia cross paths. Most of the veterans don't really engage with sports media in the same way Sue does. So they just ignore players like Layshia completely. But Sue's been trying to strike a balance.

If you're used to media Sue, watch out. That Sue almost completely disappears when the WNBA season starts. This is when she hardens up into real Sue.

[crossdreamers]

Layshia Clarendon on Trans People: “No one can erase us!!

From them on Instagram:

The WNBA’s first openly trans and nonbinary player Layshia Clarendon (she/her/they/them/he/him) has opened up about getting top surgery on January 13 in a heartfelt statement. “I want Trans people to know and see that we’ve always existed & no one can erase us!,’ they continued. 

“I want people to remember that my freedom is your freedom because none of us are free until we are all free!!!"

Layshia on insta.

Swish Appeal reports on Clarendon speaking with ACLU lawyer Chase Strangio via IGTV about the wave of legislative bills sweeping the nation that seek to strip or limit the rights of trans individuals:

“They’re trying to stop us from existing, and from thriving,” Clarendon said, of the bills targeting trans rights. “And this is a life or death matter for so many people.”

With legislation being introduced that targets trans women in sports in particular, Clarendon also discussed their desire to speak out and be visible for any future trans athletes attempting to enter the WNBA.

...Clarendon’s initial tweet about top surgery received an outpouring of love, celebration and support from her followers, including their wife, Jessica, who responded with a series of “I love yous.”

The couple had their first child together in December, the same month Clarendon began identifying as trans.

Out reports that Clarendon’s team, the New York Liberty, posted a message in support on Twitter. 

“The Liberty has been and will continue to be an organization that celebrates the individuality of all people. 

“Layshia is a proud embodiment of our belief that our strength lies in our truth and no one should live constrained by society boundaries.

“Layshia’s journey as a pioneering athlete, along with their activism and advocacy work, is an inspiring call for each of us to honor our humanity above all else.”

[indizombie]

We are dedicating this season to Breonna Taylor, an outstanding EMT [emergency medical technician]. Breonna Taylor was dedicated and committed to uplifting everyone around her. We are also dedicating this season to the ‘Say Her Name’ campaign, a campaign committed to saying the names and fighting for justice of black women. Black women are so often forgotten in this fight for justice, who don’t have people marching in the streets for them. We will be a voice for the voiceless.

Layshia Clarendon, guard, New York Liberty

[non-binharry]

i'm gonna break up your ask box with some positive trans news! layshia clarendon (she/her/they/them/he/him) who plays in the wnba got top surgery! which is something they've wanted for a while to feel more comfortable in their skin! and they're also just a huge pioneer in trans athletes. the wnba and the team they play on released statements of support (which while being bare minimum is really important to put out there). just good things :)

omgggg anon this gave me the happiest tears 💗💗 i'm so so happy for them and they look so happy!!!!! x

[female-malice]

i love sylvia fowles, i love how she plays, i love her career with the lynx, and also she’s extremely beautiful. i love that she gets to play with napheesa collier. 

but i literally cannot stand the minnesota lynx this year. and it has everything to do with layshia clarendon/the ellen page of basketball, and nothing to do with anything else. 

[tattooed-alchemist]

Editor's note: Layshia Clarendon, who identifies as transgender and nonbinary, uses he/him, she/her, and they/them pronouns interchangeably. We do so throughout this piece. We also introduce the preferred pronouns for others who appear in this story and for whom pronouns are used.

[caitlinclark]

are there certain wnba players that have good instagram content that are must need follow? i’m just jumping on but i don’t want to follow everyone from every team. also i’ve noticed w the teams that i’m following, their media teams are fire 🔥 they post a lot and it’s Good content i was very surprised but very happy to see it.

so these are my personal favorites: a’ja wilson, brittney sykes, diamond deshields, cheyenne parker, gabby williams, aerial powers, candace parker, nneka ogwumike, lexie brown, natalie achonwa, courtney williams, alysha clark, layshia clarendon, monique billings, myisha hines-allen, chelsea gray.

also, they’re not playing this year but they’re all great to follow too: tiffany hayes, natasha cloud, liz cambage, renee montgomery, chiney ogwumike, imani mcgee-stafford.

i’m probably forgetting some but these are the first ones that came to mind. they all tend to post often and are great people to follow!

yes! luckily wnba teams are usually very active on social media, they’re always posting all kinds of content which is really good. plus they’re pretty fun accounts in general, so it’s pretty nice!

[nosowoso]

Layshia Clarendon also follows that account I’m yelling

So does Sami Whitcomb💀💀

[female-buckets]

Okay, why did Layisha get run out of Minnesota? With your leader/goat Slyvia, who seems like such a kind, genuine, even tempered person and player, and a legit coaching staff- what went wrong? Wonder if layisha was talked to and didn’t listen, or they’re just too head strong a person? Too bad it didn’t work out.

Ever since Maya cut the dynasty short, it's been some strange years for Minnesota. But I see Minnesota as the best place for player development in the league. But players who don't develop and evolve end up getting cut from Reeve's rosters.

Layshia had kind of a weird professional career. Also some chemistry problems in Atlanta. Syl is a sweetheart but it's her last season. I don't think she wanted to spend the season mediating an awkward locker room. So Reeve cycled through players to find a more positive upbeat group. And yes, that group struggled in the league standings. But at the same time, Syl really loves all of them and loved playing with them this year. And they were all very receptive of Syl's mentorship. And that was the goal of the Lynx this year.

💙💚