After our recent study of sport and sexuality, I knew I had to comment on my blog of the topic. The Gender Trap highlighted subdued issues that arise in sport when it comes to intersex and transgender athletes.
It was new to me to hear of Renee Richards (Richard Raskind). I missed the story on ESPN, and am looking into finding the movie. I was really surprised in the time frame of the story. Renee Richards came out in a time where LGBT was unheard of, and when it was known was outraged and ostracized.
I admire her ability to come to grips with herself, and the courage to be open in the world at a time where not only was it very uncommon and disgraced, but also competitively in tennis.
I had heard if the Stockholm Consensus, but never took into account all of the harsh testing and guidelines transgendered athletes had to succumb to. I can't imagine the disgrace and shame a transgender female feels when being prodded and judged like cattle. But the question of why did the consensus address intersex?
Even as unaddressed intersex is, I have a hard time believing it is that uncommon globally. But the biggest thing I am interested in is researching further, how does such a large governing body, such as the Olympics gauge cross-culturally what is accepted and should be allowed as females and males in competition? It definitely would make a difference for strength, speed, etc. But when does ethics come into play? Where can a distinct line be drawn? I believe that the regulations will have to often change and adapt to a more/less welcoming society, and gender practices in sport.
It was new to me to hear of Renee Richards (Richard Raskind). I missed the story on ESPN, and am looking into finding the movie. I was really surprised in the time frame of the story. Renee Richards came out in a time where LGBT was unheard of, and when it was known was outraged and ostracized.
I admire her ability to come to grips with herself, and the courage to be open in the world at a time where not only was it very uncommon and disgraced, but also competitively in tennis.
I had heard if the Stockholm Consensus, but never took into account all of the harsh testing and guidelines transgendered athletes had to succumb to. I can't imagine the disgrace and shame a transgender female feels when being prodded and judged like cattle. But the question of why did the consensus address intersex?
Even as unaddressed intersex is, I have a hard time believing it is that uncommon globally. But the biggest thing I am interested in is researching further, how does such a large governing body, such as the Olympics gauge cross-culturally what is accepted and should be allowed as females and males in competition? It definitely would make a difference for strength, speed, etc. But when does ethics come into play? Where can a distinct line be drawn? I believe that the regulations will have to often change and adapt to a more/less welcoming society, and gender practices in sport.
Very astute insights about how much more needs to be done in the area of transgender, intersex, and transsexuality. Actually, there was a movie made about Renee Richards that was based on a book about her. I think it was called Second Serve but I have not been able to find it. If you do, let me know!
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