The issue over transgender athletes in girls’ sports continues to spark discussions across the country.

Within days, the CIF Track and Field championships will take the center stage at Veteran’s Memorial Stadium in Clovis.

But with it, comes a simmering controversy.

AB Hernandez, a transgender athlete from Yorba Linda High School, is set to compete this weekend.


Caption: FILE – AB Hernandez competed in CIF-SS Preliminaries on May 10th at Yorba Linda HS. (Photo: Sophia Lorey)


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And those opposed to her competing say, they are planning to protest.

Some, even traveling as far as Riverside County to make their stand.

“I hope a lot of parents show up,” said Maria Carrillo, a mother from Riverside County.

She says her stance is not about targeting trans athletes but about advocating for a fair competition.


Caption: FILE – AB Hernandez competed in CIF-SS Preliminaries on May 10th at Yorba Linda HS. (Photo: Sophia Lorey)

Although she doesn’t have a child competing, she says she is making the drive to Clovis to stand with others on this issue.

She says she does not want her children to go through this in the future and doesn’t like to see opportunities taken away from biological girls.

At the same time, those on the other side of this aisle say their voices need to be heard too.

Jorge Reyes Salinas, a spokesperson for Equality California, a civil rights group, is speaking in support of transgender female athletes in girls’ sports.

He had a message for trans athletes.

“The trans athletes watching this right now, it’s really important for them to know that people have their back. People are there to speak on their behalf, to work for their freedom, to be accepted. We’re not turning our backs on them,” he said.


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Salinas says this issue is nothing new.

“What we’re seeing that’s new is unfortunately, the attacks against transgender youth from Donald Trump and his base,” Salinas said. “They are putting this target on them or bullying and harassment, not only in schools but also online and especially when it’s being highlighted in news.”

Equality California urges CIF to uphold inclusive sport policies and look forward to working hand-in-hand with them when it comes to fairness for all students.

Carrillo says for parents planning to protest, she hopes it’s not to bully or shout at the athlete. But, to bring awareness by wearing shirts that express what they stand for.

She also said, “This is biological truth, and we are not trying to bully the student. We are trying to make a stand for those in leadership.”

Should a biological male be allowed to compete in any female competition?

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