I have given birth to a son and a daughter.   As much as I wanted to be like my two brothers, there were things that I physically could not do.  And there are things which I have had to suffer that they will never have to bear.   I can tell you from first-hand experience that biological males and females are different.

I was a teenager when Title IX was passed.  Prior to that passing, I was not allowed to play any male sports.  Title IX allowed us to have a girls’ basketball team and track team.  While we could not excel to the level of the boys’ team, we were able to compete within our gender.  I appreciate that opportunity supplied by these protections.

I also appreciate the opportunity to read the comments attached to this petition.  I have friends who are parents of transgender children and know that these decisions are not taken lightly.  We work hard to protect our children.  I hope discussions will continue after this time period to determine how best to handle the problems that come from this situation.  All people must be treated with dignity.

However, the facts remain.  Biological women can be hurt by biological men.  Men are typically stronger and have different hormones.  While there are risks to both the biological women and the transgender women in this situation, I fully believe that the biological women are at a greater risk and disadvantage.  Sports were divided in 1972 for a reason.  Those reasons still exist.