LOS ANGELES, June 30, 2026—Following today’s Supreme Court’s decision in West Virginia v. B.P.J., which upheld two states’ laws prohibiting trans youth to participate in school sports, Los Angeles LGBT Center CEO Joe Hollendoner has issued the following statement:
“Today, the Supreme Court failed transgender young people and their families—and in doing so, turned its back on the fundamental promise of equal protection under the law.
By allowing states to ban transgender youth from participating in school sports consistent with their gender identity, the Court has sanctioned discrimination under the false premise of fairness. This decision sends a devastating message to transgender young people: that they are less deserving of belonging, less worthy of dignity, and less protected by the laws meant to safeguard all of us.
We know that sports are about much more than competition. They are about finding community, building confidence, learning teamwork, and experiencing the joy and benefits of being part of something bigger than yourself. Excluding trans students from participating in athletics that align with their identity causes real harm—especially at a time when LGBTQ+ youth are already facing unprecedented political attacks, higher rates of bullying and isolation, and significant mental health challenges.
At the Los Angeles LGBT Center, we know a different truth: every young person deserves the chance to be seen, supported, and included exactly as they are. No court ruling can change that, and we will continue fighting for a future where every transgender young person can participate fully and safely in every aspect of their lives—including on the playing field.
Trans young people belong—in our schools, on sports teams, and in every community across this country. The Center stands firmly with transgender youth and their families. We will continue advocating for policies that protect and affirm transgender people and work toward a future where every young person can live safely, authentically, and with dignity.”
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