Schools grapple with Governor Noem’s order on transgender sports
(Photo: State of South Dakota)
April 1, 2021
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — When South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem issued executive orders to bar transgender girls from girls’ sports leagues, it appeared to be a quick fix to what had become a political mess.
But the governor’s orders won’t cause immediate changes and may not be implemented at all unless the Legislature addresses the issue.
While the governor’s spokesman Ian Fury says that “school districts are expected to implement that policy,” an organization representing school administrators says it will likely stick to a policy of allowing transgender athletes to apply to join teams that align with their gender identity.
Transgender advocates say a ban sends a hurtful message to transgender children.
