New York executive Bruce Blakeman has taken legal action to prevent state Attorney General Letitia James from halting his order that prohibits transgender women and girls from participating in events at county-run facilities.
The lawsuit, filed in the Eastern District of New York, represents Nassau County residents, including Blakeman, a 16-year-old female volleyball player, and her parents.
James had previously demanded that Blakeman revoke his executive order, stating that the ban on transgender athletes violates state law. She sent a cease-and-desist letter to Blakeman, warning of further legal action if he did not rescind the order within five days.
New York County Executive Member (Credits: CNN)
The plaintiffs argue in the lawsuit that men have historically received more recognition and opportunities than women in sports. While women’s sports have made significant progress, they contend that allowing biological males to compete against biological females undermines this progress and creates an unsafe environment.
Blakeman, in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), stated that he filed the lawsuit to protect women’s sports and ensure a safe environment for women in Nassau County. He emphasized that bullying of women and girls would not be tolerated.
During a press conference in February, Blakeman clarified that transgender athletes are permitted to compete in all-boys or coed leagues in Nassau County, regardless of their gender identity. Blakeman’s executive order applies to over 100 public venues, including parks, sports fields, courts, pools, and ice rinks.
The plaintiffs are seeking a court injunction to halt the enforcement of the Human Rights Law against Blakeman’s executive order and to affirm its legality. The Hill has reached out to James’ office for comment on the lawsuit.
