US swimmer Riley Gaines, who has been in the eye of the storm since last year for criticizing the participation of transgender athletes in women’s competitions, took refuge in a classroom at San Francisco State University after a speech on the subject, as a group of transgender women’s rights protesters cornered her.
A video posted on Twitter shows the athlete being escorted by police to safety while being chased by protesters. Gaines posted a message on her Twitter account explaining the situation and reiterating her stance on the need for protected spaces for women.
An officer of Gaines commented that it is alarming that in today’s society it is acceptable for biologically male students to physically assault a woman for standing up for women’s rights. Gaines has remained at the center of controversy since she criticized transgender swimmer Lia Thomas’ participation in women’s competitions. Thomas became the first transgender athlete to win the US National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I title and break several women’s tournament records, sparking controversy in the sports world.
This incident once again highlights the debate about the rights of trans athletes in women’s sports competitions and the need to find a fair balance for all parties involved.