Just six weeks after women’s fencer Stephanie Turner was disqualified and removed from a tournament for kneeling in protest against her transgender competitor, the chair of USA Fencing faced tough questioning at a federal hearing. This hearing, which focused on the impact of the inclusion of transgender athletes in women’s sports, took place before Republican lawmakers.
Following the hearing, Turner expressed her intention to urge resignations from key members of US Fencing leadership. She stated, “Honestly, I am going to push for resignations, especially those who have made public comments.”
In response to Turner’s call for a leadership change, USA Fencing issued a statement acknowledging her right to voice her opinions. They mentioned that the volunteer board members are committed to serving athletes and upholding their duties under relevant regulations, while also indicating that leadership changes are under consideration.
Damien Lefeld, the chair of USA Fencing, faced mounting challenges prior to the hearing due to controversial social media posts. One post went viral, where he responded dismissively to concerns about the fairness of allowing a trans fencer to compete. During the hearing, he recognized the need for more thoughtful responses.
Turner commented on Lefeld’s earlier remarks and his behavior on social media, stating, “It was astonishing that he admitted to posting a fake response on Instagram.”
As the hearing proceeded, members from the committee were not shy about expressing their dissatisfaction. One lawmaker suggested that Lefeld wouldn’t allow his own daughter to compete against a male athlete, to which Lefeld replied that he believed in the safety measures in place for competitors.
However, Rep. Nancy Mace, another committee member, challenged Lefeld’s stance, implying that a real man would defend women in sports. She even called for an apology to Turner due to the punishment she faced, but Turner clarified that she wasn’t seeking mere apologies. “I want more than words; I want real policy changes,” she stated.
USA Fencing’s current inclusion policy allows transgender athletes to compete in women’s categories after undergoing a year of testosterone suppression, but Turner is advocating for a review of this policy. In light of recent events, USA Fencing has indicated they are considering revisions to their gender eligibility guidelines.
The proposed changes would limit the female category to athletes defined as biologically female. Education Secretary Linda McMahon has initiated an investigation into the incident involving Turner and the trans competitor.
Turner, meanwhile, has taken a step back from fencing as she navigates the fallout from the controversy. “I can’t justify spending money on tournaments when it feels like I’m opposing officials who are against me,” she remarked. “I’d prefer to fight this battle elsewhere.”
