The United States Women’s National Soccer Team is calling for internal discussions over the prospect of playing in states that restrict the participation of transgender athletes in sports. The team, which is preparing for the upcoming SheBelieves Cup, has matches scheduled in Florida and Texas, two states that have enacted laws aimed at limiting the inclusion of transgender individuals in sports.
“We have always been vocal about where we stand and we will continue to do so,” said forward Alex Morgan during a conference call with reporters. “The inclusion of trans kids in sports is the inclusion of kids in sports and everyone should have the ability to play.”
Defender Becky Sauerbrunn also spoke out on the issue, writing an op-ed in defense of the rights of transgender athletes. The team has a history of using its platform to raise awareness about social justice issues, including the fight for equal pay and reproductive rights.
When asked about the potential sponsorship deal between FIFA and Saudi Arabia’s tourism authority for the Women’s World Cup, Morgan expressed her disappointment, stating, “I just don’t understand it…I hope that FIFA does the right thing.”