In the quiet state of Maine, a battle of values is brewing, and it seems like common sense is on the ropes. The latest chapter in this cultural saga emerges from Maine University, which has taken the decision to keep transgender athletes out of women’s sports. A nod to rationality, some would say. Yet, the public schools in the state are still wrapped up in an investigation for alleged Title IX violations, with a looming deadline set by the Trump administration threatening to pause funding.
The issue of transgender athletes competing in women’s sports is one that many, including President Trump, argue comes down to good old-fashioned common sense. It’s the kind of issue that when people close the curtain in a voting booth, they overwhelmingly side with what they believe is right, and yet it remains a topic that many shy away from in public discourse.
Maine’s stance on this issue hasn’t gone unnoticed. A brave varsity high school athlete, Cassidy Carlisle, has thrown her hat into the ring, sharing her firsthand experience with the state’s transgender athlete policies. Having excelled in soccer, Nordic skiing, and track and field, this young athlete found herself facing an uncomfortable reality. At just 13, she knew that something was amiss as she was faced with competing against transgender athletes and having to change in front of them. Feeling voiceless is never easy, especially for a child, but Carlisle is using her platform to speak out so others know it’s okay to do the same.
Cassidy has faced a governor who, despite being in her position because of women who fought long and hard for equality, seems rather indifferent to the plight of young female athletes. One could say that it’s a tad hypocritical, given the journey women have undertaken for equal opportunities. Cassidy’s message to the governor was simple but powerful: consider the young women of Maine. By ignoring them, the governor sends a disheartening message to all the women who helped pave her path to leadership.
Despite the cultural pressure and fear of backlash, the changing tides show parents and communities are less afraid to stand up for what’s right. The narrative is shifting, and with voices like Cassidy’s leading the charge, there’s hope that rationality will prevail. As this story develops, one can only hope that leaders will start listening to the people who are directly affected by these policies, instead of caving to the pressures of political correctness.
