April Hutchinson Leads Sophie Cunningham Rally in Toronto

Canadian powerlifting champion April Hutchinson took the lead at the 7th annual Sophie Cunningham rally, which happened in Toronto for the first time on Tuesday night. This marked a significant shift, as the event usually takes place in the United States.

Supporters gathered outside Scotiabank Arena prior to the Indiana Fever’s win over the Toronto Tempo. Many participants wore shirts representing XX-XY Athletics.

Hutchinson mentioned that, for the most part, everyone present supported Cunningham. Although there was a small group, about five individuals, who sported pro-trans messages and engaged in a discussion with the main rally crowd.

“There were just a few people wearing Protect Trans Kids and Protect the Dolls T-shirts. Someone passing by commented that our sign was disrespectful,” Hutchinson recounted.

She also appreciated the Toronto police for their efforts in ensuring the event’s safety, noting that they reached out to her earlier in the day to inquire about the gathering.

However, tensions flared between Cunningham’s supporters and local law enforcement when a mobile billboard advocating for fairness in women’s sports, featuring Cunningham alongside a message from Martina Navratilova, received a ticket from police.

This billboard was placed by Rebel News, which plans to challenge the ticket, according to their statement to Fox News Digital. The citation specifically noted the violation of a city by-law regarding animated or illuminated signs.

The Toronto police responded to inquiries regarding the ticket by stating that it’s currently a matter before the courts, which limits what they could share.

During the game, Cunningham performed well, hitting all three of her three-point attempts and totaling 13 points. Still, she met some booing from the crowd, reflecting her polarizing status after taking a stand on protecting women’s sports.

After the game, Cunningham remarked on the experience and commended the enthusiastic Toronto crowd. “I want to give a shout out to the Tempo crowd and the city. I think it was a lot of fun. It’s my first time in Canada… but the crowd was just amazing,” she said, adding that the passion of the fans, despite the boos, contributed to the excitement of sports.

The rally not only supports Cunningham but also propels the Fever through their upcoming games, with additional “Sophie Nights” planned for the following matchups against the Wings and the Liberty later in the week.