LGBTIQ+ Training Offered to Disgruntled Parents Following Outrage Over Transgender Athletes in Women’s Soccer Leagues

Football Australia Introduces Inclusion Policy with LGBTQI+ Training for Soccer Community

After complaints from parents regarding a trans woman’s participation in a female soccer league, Football Australia has announced its ‘High Performance Inclusion Policy’ to make football the most diverse and inclusive sport in the country. The policy includes LGBTQI+ training and support resources to promote greater understanding of the experiences of the LGBTQI+ community in sports. This initiative is a collaboration with Pride in Sport, and the Football Working Group includes representatives from Football Australia, Professional Footballers Australia, Australian Professional Leagues, and state Member Federations. The policy aims to provide players with the opportunity to participate in the competition that best represents their gender identity. Reports suggest that at least five trans women actively participate in the league across New South Wales. 

Binary Australia spokesperson Kirralie Smith claims that Football NSW has neglected to address concerns surrounding the inclusion of trans women on female teams, despite supporters sending thousands of emails requesting a policy review. However, world soccer’s governing body FIFA and World Athletics are considering their transgender eligibility policies, and FIFA women’s program director Sarai Bareman says they are consulting with various human rights groups, non-governmental organizations, athletes, and other sports, along with the International Olympic Committee. These extensive consultations show FIFA’s commitment to getting it right and blueprinting a new policy that suits its 211 member associations. The Australian Human Rights Commission has shared guidelines to ensure the inclusion of transgender people in sports and prevent discrimination and sexual harassment due to sex or gender identity.



Original Post Link