Gymnastics Australia released new guidelines allowing transgender individuals to choose the uniforms and facilities for the gender of their choosing.
“Our commitment to transgender and gender diverse people involved in our sport is that gymnastics is and will continue to be a safe and inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, ability, cultural background, or ethnicity,” said Gymnastics Australia leader Alexandra Ash.
“Diversity ensures our sport is better for all involved, and we want everyone to feel comfortable and supported as part of the gymnastics community,” the statement continued.
“We also want all members to feel celebrated in who they are and see them continue to contribute to the diverse community and legacy of gymnastics as one of Australia’s most popular sports for young people.”
Ninety-three percent of those involved in gymnastics in Australia are under the age of 12.
The guidelines come one week after Gymnastics Australia declared it was joining the Commonwealth National Redress Scheme, an organization providing support for victims of child sexual abuse.
“Children and young people are the heart of our communities. Gymnastics Australia acknowledges the catastrophic impact of abuse on their lives, families, and friends,” Ash noted.
Reporting from Sky News:
Alison Dunn general manager of Eastern Gymnastics Club in Box Hill, Melbourne welcomed the new guidelines and said she was “proud” to be involved with a sport that “takes such a strong hold on initiatives like this”. “As a gymnastics community, we welcome participants, coaches, and members from all walks of life and as a Club, we want to ensure everyone who walks through our doors feels welcomed as they are, where they are, regardless of their sex, gender identity, ability, skill level, or personal beliefs,” Ms Dunn said.
