At a track meet held at Yorba Linda High School, a group of around 30 adults, including three local school board members, directed jeers at 16-year-old transgender athlete AB Hernandez from the sidelines. Hernandez, who attends Jurupa Valley High School, is currently a target of efforts aimed at banning transgender athletes from participation in California youth sports.
In an interview during the meet, Hernandez stated, “I’m still a child, you’re an adult, and for you to act like a child shows how you are as a person.” Despite the heckling, she achieved impressive results, finishing first in the triple jump, third in the long jump, and eighth in the high jump during the event.
The protestors included individuals like Chino Valley Unified School District President Sonja Shaw, who has publicly advocated against transgender girls in sports, claiming they possess an unfair advantage. Shaw’s statements reflect the ongoing national dialogue regarding the inclusion of trans athletes in women’s sports. She has also been involved in past controversies, notably revealing Hernandez’s name and personal details in a public campaign against trans athletes.
Research by experts, including those from the Williams Institute, argues there is no substantial evidence that trans athletes outperform their cisgender peers or pose a greater risk in competitive environments. Elana Redfield, the federal policy director, emphasized, “We’re not seeing a dramatic increase in trans people winning competitions.”
Despite the negativity surrounding Hernandez, she highlighted the support she receives from many of her peers, noting that most athletes are shocked and disappointed by the bullying. Hernandez, who has been active in track for three years, expressed resilience in the face of adversity and cited inspiration from fellow athletes, including Alyssa Hope, a member of the University of Southern California track team.
Hernandez’s determination to succeed is evident in her intensive training regimen, which she maintains throughout the year. “I’ve trained so hard. I mean, hours of conditioning every day,” she remarked. “The overwhelming support from my team makes me feel like I can handle anything.”
Hernandez’s achievements are a testament to her dedication and a broader message of resilience in sports. As she prepares for the upcoming California Interscholastic Federation State Track & Field Championships, her story may inspire others facing similar challenges and contribute to a growing conversation on inclusivity and acceptance in athletics.