Challenging the UCI: Allyship for Trans-Inclusive Cycling

Posted on Patreon July 19, 2023

I promised myself that I would try to keep my opinion posts at a limit but here we are again, another blow to diversity and inclusion in cycling. In recent news, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) made a decision that has sent shockwaves through the cycling community through their decision to ban transgender athletes from participating in all elite women's professional cycling. This is not only unfair and unequal, but it also poses significant concerns in women's sport. This decision undermines the progress that has been made towards inclusivity in sport and reinforces a system that perpetuates inequality. As intersectional feminists, it is our duty to stand up against such discrimination and fight for a more inclusive and supportive environment for all athletes. 

I'm not going to pretend that this doesn't affect the cycling community, this decision, unfortunately, impacts cycling industry and culture dynamics from diversity, equity and inclusion, right down to safe spaces for WTF folks in cycling. It sets the tone for the entire industry that inclusion and equality is not important. In this post, I want to highlight key issues surrounding the UCI's decision and offer actionable steps to be allies to trans cyclists. It is crucial that we address these issues through an unapologetically feminist lens while advocating for allyship and support for the trans community in cycling in this moment. Let's dive into the implications of this decision and explore actionable steps toward creating a more inclusive and equitable future for all athletes.

Unequal and Unsafe Spaces for Women:

UCI's ban on transgender athletes participating in women's professional racing has dealt a devastating blow to the pursuit of fairness and inclusivity in sports. This decision not only perpetuates gender stereotypes and inequalities but also compromises the safety of women athletes. For years, women in professional racing have been fighting tooth and nail against sexism, for recognition, equal pay, investment, equal media coverage and resources, and safer racing conditions. Sadly, the UCI's decision adds fuel to the fire of these deeply-rooted sexist and systemic issues, undermining the progress achieved by female athletes in recent years. It is crucial to understand that equality means ensuring fair and equal access to opportunities for all, regardless of gender identity.

To counter the UCI's short-sighted decision, we must adopt a perspective that recognizes the complex web of oppression different individuals face and will be facing in the near future of women's professional cycling. As mentioned by Ayesha McGowan's post Banning transgender athletes is not helping us in any way,  "Removing transgender athletes from competing has never been about saving women’s sports... Something worse." Ayesha reminds us that UCI's decision to ban transgender athletes in professional cycling not only targets transgender individuals but also directly impacts Black female athletes, exacerbating the systemic barriers they already face.

To be true allies to trans cyclists, and women's cycling, we must actively work towards dismantling barriers and fostering inclusivity and support in the cycling community and sport. Here are a few actionable steps we can take:

Education and Awareness: It is incumbent upon us to educate ourselves and others about transgender identities and the unique challenges faced by transgender athletes in the sporting world. We must foster open minds and conversations that challenge misconceptions and prejudices, promoting understanding and empathy. 

Fight Systemic Oppression: The UCI's decision is part of a larger pattern of systemic oppression that disproportionately affects marginalized communities. By targeting transgender athletes, the ban perpetuates a culture that reinforces discrimination, exclusion, and unequal treatment. As intersectional feminists, we must challenge these systems of power, petition, and advocate for comprehensive changes that dismantle all forms of oppression in sports. We must either demand fair regulations that prioritize inclusivity and safeguard the rights of all athletes or completely built a new and inclusive governing body. I'm up the the later.

Support Trans Athletes: We must raise the volume on the voices and achievements of transgender athletes, celebrating their triumphs and acknowledging the tremendous strength and resilience required to compete at elite levels. We can show support through sponsorship, mentorship, and unyielding solidarity, and holding events that foster a more inclusive and empowering sporting community. We must demand fair regulations that prioritize inclusivity and safeguard the rights of all athletes.

Allyship Training: Let's support and organize allyship training programs for coaches, athletes, and cycling organizations. Such initiatives can help cultivate understanding and create supportive spaces for transgender athletes. By educating others about the unique challenges faced by transgender athletes and equipping them with the tools for inclusion, we can make substantial progress.

Advocate for Equal Opportunities: Let's fight for equal opportunities, recognition, safe and fair treatment for women in professional cycling. Recognize that the struggle for equality is interconnected and wholeheartedly support initiatives that promote gender equity that supports and empower all athletes.

The UCI's decision to ban transgender athletes from women's professional racing represents a staggering setback for inclusion and equity in cycling culture but I remain hopefull that another world is possible. This fight is going to be a long fight and together we can create new systems and actively support the trans community, we can challenge these discriminatory policies and work towards a more inclusive cycling environment. Through education, policy reform, allyship, and unrelenting advocacy, we can strive for a future where all athletes, irrespective of their gender identity, can compete safely and on an equal footing. Let us unite to strengthen the integrity and beauty of the sport, while leaving no one behind.

🤝In Solidarity,

Christina