Two transgender teens in New Hampshire are taking legal action against a new state law that prohibits them from participating in girls’ sports teams at their public high schools. The families of Parker Tirrell, 15, and Iris Turmelle, 14, have filed a lawsuit challenging the law, stating that both teens have identified as girls since a young age and have the support of their parents, peers, teammates, and coaches.
Parker Tirrell, who played soccer with the girls’ team in 9th grade at Plymouth Regional High School, expressed her desire to continue practicing with the team for the upcoming season. She emphasized the importance of playing with her teammates and how being denied the opportunity to do so would impact her social life and school experience. Both Parker and Iris have been diagnosed with gender dysphoria and are undergoing medical treatment to align with their gender identity.
The lawsuit argues that the New Hampshire law violates constitutional protections and federal laws by discriminating against transgender individuals and denying them equal educational opportunities. Governor Chris Sununu signed the “Fairness in Women’s Sports Act” into law last month, stating that it aims to ensure fairness and safety in women’s sports by maintaining integrity and competitive balance.
Iris Turmelle, who is entering her first year at Pembroke Academy, expressed her disappointment in being restricted from trying out for the tennis and track and field teams due to her transgender identity. She emphasized that she should have the same opportunities as any other girl at school.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court in Concord, seeks an immediate ruling to allow both girls to participate in sports activities. The legal representation for Parker and Iris is provided by GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), the ACLU of New Hampshire, and Goodwin. Chris Erchull, a senior staff attorney at GLAD, stated that New Hampshire cannot justify singling out transgender girls and depriving them of essential educational benefits available to other students.
The issue of transgender athletes participating in school sports has been a contentious topic across the United States, with various legal challenges and debates taking place in different states. The outcome of this lawsuit in New Hampshire could have broader implications for how transgender individuals are treated in educational settings and sports programs.