University Place, Wash. – A recent regional cross‑country meet in Washington has put the upcoming ballot measure Initiative 638 into the spotlight. The measure would prohibit biological males from competing in girls’ K‑12 sports, a policy many parents and athletes say is essential for fairness and safety.
Controversial race ignites local concern
During the district meet at Chambers Bay, a Camas High runner who transferred to the girls’ team mid‑season finished seventh in the regional standings. That placement kept Puyallup High’s Sierra Retzlaff from advancing to the state championship, prompting outrage among teammates and parents.
“That’s a man!” shouted Joel Retzlaff, father of Skyview runner Sierra Retzlaff, when the Camas runner’s name was announced. The Camas athlete did not appear on the podium, and coach Matt LeGrand declined to comment on the decision.
Voices from the community
Three‑time Olympian rower Carol Brown, who won a bronze medal for the United States, expressed her frustration. “I fought for Title IX to be allowed in sports, and now I’m fighting again. Fairness means competition must be based on sex,” Brown said.
Skyview runner Charlie Garrett, who placed just behind the Camas athlete in two recent meets, described the experience as “really frustrating” but noted she still qualified for state. “I shouldn’t be sad about the result, but it’s hard to accept when a biological male is taking a spot that a girl earned,” Garrett added.
Advocacy groups weigh in
Jasmin Faulk, executive director of the Women’s Liberation Front (WOLF), argued that the issue transcends partisan lines. “This is about safety and fairness for women and girls,” she said. “Democrats have been quiet on this, while the right has consistently defended girls’ sports.”
Local resident Dawn Land, holding a sign that read “Girls deserve fair sports!”, called the Camas runner’s participation “grossly unfair” and condemned the adults who allowed it.
Initiative 638 on the ballot
Washington voters will decide on Initiative 638 in the November election. The measure would amend state law to require that athletic competitions be organized by biological sex, effectively barring biological males from girls’ teams at the K‑12 level.
Supporters, including many parents, coaches, and former athletes, argue the initiative protects the integrity of girls’ sports and upholds the principle of equal opportunity. Opponents claim it discriminates against transgender youth, but the language of the initiative focuses specifically on biological sex rather than gender identity.
What voters need to know
Initiative 638 appears on the November ballot as a statewide referendum. Voters who believe in fair and safe competition for girls are urged to vote “yes”. The measure has garnered endorsements from several local school districts and athletic associations, emphasizing its alignment with longstanding principles of Title IX and parental rights.
As the election approaches, community forums and school board meetings are scheduled across the state to discuss the implications of the initiative. Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and consider how the policy aligns with their values of family, faith, and individual liberty.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
