” [Petrillo] will be treated as any other athlete. I believe it is only reasonable that we treat [transgender athletes] with respect.
In an interview with the BBC, Petrillo discussed her status as the first transgender Paralympic athlete, stating:
“Above all, as an athlete and as a person,” she concluded. “The historic significance of being the first transgender
woman to compete in the Paralympics is a significant symbol of inclusion.” This is not a lifestyle choice for me; it is a reflection of my identity.
“And the manner in which I am, like all transgender individuals who do not feel a sense of belonging to their biological gender, should not be discriminated against in the same way that race,
religion, or political ideology are not.” “And sports that establish regulations based on a binary perspective fail to consider this.
” It is the responsibility of the sport to identify a remedy, and it is evident that excluding transgender athletes is not that solution.
