NFL’s First Transgender Cheerleader Claims Dismissal Due to Gender Identity

A dancer has alleged that the NFL’s first transgender cheerleader was dismissed from her position due to her gender identity.

Recently, the NFL introduced male cheerleaders, and in 2022, Justin Lindsay made history as the league’s first transgender cheerleader with the Carolina Panthers.

The Panthers organization previously defended its hiring practices, stating that members of the Top Cats cheer squad were selected based on their qualifications.

In a recent Instagram Live session, Lindsay claimed he was let go by the organization specifically because he is transgender. “I got cut because I’m trans,” he expressed.

Lindsay added frustration toward comments questioning why he wouldn’t want to return to a team he has been a part of for three years. “Why wouldn’t she want to go back?” he questioned rhetorically.

Despite feeling “devastated” and “hurt,” Lindsay identified one individual within the organization as the source of discomfort—the team’s new cheerleading coach, with whom he had previously negative experiences.

“When she arrived, I thought, ‘Oh no, here we go again,'” Lindsay recalled. He expressed discontent with the team’s inability to see how cheerleading could positively impact lives.

Lindsay emphasized the emotional impact of his dismissal, describing it as a “slap in the face” not only for him but for young people looking for role models. He noted that his termination occurred shortly after President Trump’s reelection.

Lindsay confirmed in August that he was released from the team, but did not elaborate on the reasons behind it. Instead, he focused on his ongoing community involvement and aspirations, stating, “I want to be recognized as someone who makes a positive impact during these uncertain times.”

He referred to his time in the NFL as a “stepping stone” and encouraged others, regardless of their background, to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. “Don’t let a delusional president stop you from achieving your goals,” he urged.

During a previous interview, Lindsay stated his ambition to inspire young people, comparing his journey toward becoming an NFL cheerleader to that of pursuing a medical career. “Everything I’m going through is bigger than me,” he remarked.

Lindsay expressed his commitment to changing the narrative for transgender individuals, encouraging them to follow their aspirations. “If you have a goal, go for it. Be an NFL cheerleader, a doctor, a nurse—whatever you want to be,” he said.

Although leaving the Panthers was difficult, Lindsay insisted it doesn’t signify the end of his NFL journey. “It’s just a slap in the face,” he said in reflection.

As of now, there has been no comment from the Panthers’ ownership organization regarding Lindsay’s dismissal.