A debate over inclusivity in youth sports has emerged in the small town of St. George, Maine, after a group of parents publicly voiced opposition to an 8-year-old transgender girl playing on a third-grade girls' basketball team. The issue came to the forefront during a local government meeting, highlighting a sensitive topic that is dividing the community.
The controversy centers on the town- and school-operated basketball program for elementary students. With the season approaching, parents are demanding action from local officials, citing concerns about fairness, privacy, and the well-being of their children.
Key Takeaways
- Parents in St. George, Maine, are asking officials to prevent an 8-year-old transgender girl from playing on a girls' youth basketball team.
- Concerns raised include physical advantages, locker room privacy, and the developmental readiness of other young children.
- Town officials state they must comply with Maine state law, which protects the rights of transgender individuals based on gender identity.
- A special Select Board meeting has been scheduled for November 10 to address the community's concerns directly.
Parents Address Select Board with Concerns
During a St. George Select Board meeting on November 3, several parents expressed their objections to allowing the transgender student to participate on the girls' team. The program, a joint effort between the town's parks and recreation department and the local school, serves students from kindergarten through sixth grade.
Emily Chadwick, a member of the St. George Municipal School Board who spoke as a parent, articulated the group's position. She stated that many families in the community are upset by the situation, emphasizing that their concerns were not rooted in anger or disrespect.
"I know the law allows someone to participate based on how they identify, but it is creating an uncomfortable situation for many families in our community," Chadwick told the board. "There is no disrespect or anger toward anyone but love and protection for our own children's well being."
Chadwick explained that many parents feel unprepared to discuss gender identity with their young children. She added that she would not want her own daughter to play if the transgender girl remained on the team.
Privacy and Fairness at the Forefront
Other parents echoed these sentiments. Julie Miller, another resident, informed the board that her granddaughter would refuse to play or use the locker room facilities if a student who is biologically male is present. Another parent, who did not give his name, voiced concerns about physical strength, stating he did not want his daughter competing against boys.
During the meeting, when an attendee asked who was opposed to allowing biological males on girls' teams, more than half a dozen parents raised their hands in agreement. One person suggested a potential solution: creating three separate teams for boys, girls, and transgender students.
Town Officials Cite State Law Obligations
In response to the parents' demands, town officials pointed to their legal responsibilities. Select Board Chair Jane Conrad explained that the town is required to follow Maine state law, which permits transgender individuals to use facilities and participate in programs consistent with their gender identity.
Some audience members countered by referencing federal policies, suggesting that national directives should take precedence. However, there is currently no federal law passed by Congress that prohibits transgender students from participating in sports according to their gender identity.
Maine's Legal Landscape
The issue in St. George is unfolding against a backdrop of a larger statewide debate. A petition is currently circulating in Maine with the goal of placing a measure on the 2026 ballot that would seek to change state law regarding transgender student participation in sports. This local conflict reflects a broader, ongoing conversation across the state and nation.
Town Manager Brandon Leppanen acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the need for a more formal discussion. Since the topic was not on the official agenda for the November 3 meeting, he announced that a special session would be held.
A Community Seeks Resolution
With the basketball season set to begin in less than two weeks, parents stressed the urgency of finding a resolution. The town has acted quickly to facilitate further dialogue and provide clarity to all residents.
A special meeting of the St. George Select Board has been scheduled to address the issue comprehensively. The meeting is set for 6 p.m. on Monday, November 10, at the town office. This session will provide a dedicated forum for the town to inform the community about its legal obligations and for residents to voice their perspectives before any official action is taken.
The outcome of this meeting will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how small communities navigate the complex intersection of local sports, parental rights, and state laws protecting transgender individuals. The decision will not only affect the upcoming basketball season but also the broader sense of community in St. George.