Press Conference Highlights Split at California Women’s Track Championships

On Saturday, pro-transgender advocates held a press conference during the California Women’s Track and Field Championships, shortly after protesters from the Save Girls Sports group rallied at the same event. This marked the opening round of the state competition, where trans athletes from Jurupa Valley High School shone, securing first place in high jump, triple jump, and long jump events.

Nereida Hernandez, the mother of one of the competitors, addressed the protesting crowd at the pro-trans press conference, which was organized by LGBTQ advocacy groups Rainbow Families Action and Pride at the Pier.

She expressed her concerns, stating, “My daughter is a minor. Their actions have disturbed our peace.” Hernandez elaborated on how the controversy surrounding her child’s involvement in women’s sports had taken a toll on her family, as well as the athlete’s peers. She mentioned that, due to the hostility, she had to prioritize her daughter’s safety and mental wellbeing, even stepping away from work.

“Parents shouldn’t have to choose between their livelihood and protecting their children from public harassment,” she remarked.

Meanwhile, parents of fellow transgender athlete, Trevor Norcross, thanked Governor Gavin Newsom for condemning the Save Girls Sports protests and requested a meeting. “I appreciate your condemnation of the anti-trans protests here this morning. However, the voices of transgender athletes and their families have been largely ignored in this discussion,” one parent stated, urging the need for inclusive conversations.

The Governor’s office released a statement after hearing about the planned protest, emphasizing that discussions should prioritize fairness and respect. It reiterated his stance against using this debate to target individual children. Notably, California law mandates that students can participate in school sports based on their gender identity—a law that was enacted in 2013.