A recent debate in the Minnesota House of Representatives over the Preserve Women’s Sports Act ignited controversy when Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Representative Alicia Kozlowski labeled the bill “state-sanctioned bullying and genocide.” The act aims to restrict participation in girls' and women's school sports to biological females.
Kozlowski's remarks, which quickly spread across social media, drew intense criticism and led to the deactivation of her X account. This incident mirrors a similar situation in Maine where House Speaker Ryan Fecteau deactivated his X account after facing backlash for censuring a Republican representative who had spoken out against transgender athletes in girls' sports. The representative, Laurel Libby, had been censured for a social media post highlighting a transgender athlete's victory in a girls' competition.
The backlash against Kozlowski continues on her other active social media profiles, with numerous users condemning her use of the term “genocide.” Many comments emphasize the biological advantages of males in sports and express concerns about fair competition for female athletes. The Preserve Women’s Sports Act fell short of passage by a single vote, with 66 Democrats, including Kozlowski, voting against it. The bill defines “female” based on biological sex determined by genetics and reproductive system.
While Democrats like Kozlowski opposed the bill, many Republicans voiced support, advocating for the protection of women's sports. Republican Representative Peggy Scott argued for fairness and safety for girls, emphasizing the potential for displacement and injury from male competitors. Former Minnesota Vikings player Jack Brewer, who joined advocate Riley Gaines at the Minnesota state Capitol in support of the bill, criticized Governor Tim Walz for allowing biological males to compete in girls' sports.
The Minnesota State High School League's decision to permit transgender athletes in girls' sports, despite a presidential executive order to the contrary, has prompted a Title IX investigation by the Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights. Former U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has warned of potential legal action if the investigation reveals that girls are being denied equal opportunities in sports.
