Introduction

EDMONTON - Allison Hadley, a dedicated cross-country skier, is feeling increasingly despondent about her athletic future as the Alberta government considers a bill that would bar transgender women from participating in female sports. Having trained for years for this upcoming competition, the 44-year-old fears that her years of hard work and passion might be stripped away.

"Honestly, I just feel empty," she shared during a phone interview from Edmonton. "Skiing is not just a sport for me; it’s a way of life. It's what keeps me motivated and healthy."

Connection to Sport

Hadley's commitment to her sport has not only given her a sense of purpose but also a connection to the outdoors. "When I’m out skiing, I feel free and at peace. It’s my escape from the everyday hustle and the isolation I sometimes feel."

Legislative Changes

The recently introduced Fairness and Safety in Sport Act by Alberta's United Conservative Party would, if passed, include measures that could dismantle opportunities for transgender athletes in the province. The bill has already passed its first reading and proposes the creation of coed divisions while requiring sports organizations to report on eligibility complaints related to transgender participation.

Minister of Sport Joseph Schow has expressed that many athletes miss out on essential opportunities because they compete against transgender athletes, yet his office admits the province does not track the number of transgender athletes participating in sports. “If there are disputes, we will work with provincial sports organizations and other stakeholders,” Schow indicated, although the lack of transparency regarding which organizations were involved in the consultation process raises concerns.

Hadley's Journey

Hadley's journey in sports began with rugby, where she played for nine years until making the difficult decision to leave after coming out as transgender. "I didn't feel welcome anymore, with the type of conversations taking place in the locker rooms," she recounted, highlighting the negative jokes directed at trans individuals that made her uncomfortable.

Transitioning to cross-country skiing as a solo athlete, Hadley initially competed in the male division until 2021 when she was required to undergo hormone replacement therapy for a year before competing in the female category. Despite her best efforts, the hormonal changes affected her stamina and strength, contributing to slower race times. "I haven't won any of the races," she admitted, underscoring that the narrative of transgender women having an unfair advantage often lacks substance.

Perception of Fairness

It's often asserted that transgender athletes have an edge due to their testosterone levels, but Hadley pointed out that her levels are well below the average for cisgender women. She believes perceptions about size only serve to further discriminate against transgender athletes: "It disregards the existence of tall and strong cisgender women. Success in sports should reflect hard work, not just genetics."

Concerns and Questions

The proposed legislation has left Hadley perplexed. "It feels like we're facing a ban without a viable alternative," she stated. "It’s presented as a solution in everyone's interest, but it raises more questions than it answers." The ambiguity about how new divisions will be created and funded leaves her uncertain about the future of transgender athletes in Alberta.

"Why is the government focusing its efforts on such a small community?" Hadley asked, reflecting a sentiment of being marginalized. "It often feels like I’m being brushed aside in my own home."

Broader Societal Implications

She concluded with a poignant comment on the broader societal challenges faced by transgender individuals in sports and life. "Isolation is a constant feeling for us. Even simple interactions can become hurdles. I've experienced too many incidents of unwarranted aggression that make you question your place in society."

Conclusion

As the debate around the proposed bill continues, the implications for athletes like Hadley remain uncertain, casting a shadow over her passion for skiing and the future of inclusivity in sports.