Statement on Women's Sports and Fairness

March 10, 2025
 

To:  Citizens of Abbotsford

CC:  Board of Education SD34          

Re:  Statement on Women’s Sports and Inclusion

Dear Abbotsford Citizens,

I recently made a comment on a social media post in support of fairness in women’s sports. Several of my school board colleagues expressed concern, suggesting that support for policies restricting biological males from competing in women’s sports sends a message of broader discrimination. Upon learning of their concerns, I removed my comment and sincerely apologize to anyone who was harmed by it. I have close relationships with transgender individuals and would never want to hurt them. That said, I remain concerned about men competing in women's sports.

Today, Board Chair Shirley Wilson advised that fellow trustees have decided to bar me from attending all school events as an official board member until a further review on June 30.

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I think this decision is unreasonable as the Board has an obligation to women and girls.

I am a strong advocate for sports and physical activity for all. However, fairness in competition is distinct from human rights. Competitive sports have long included eligibility criteria—such as age divisions, weight classes, skill-based divisions, anti-doping rules, and gender categories—designed to ensure fairness and safety for all athletes. Sports organizations worldwide strive to balance inclusion and fairness, ensuring that all athletes feel safe, comfortable, and supported.

I deeply appreciate the teachers in our district, particularly those who volunteer their time for coaching sports and for leading extracurricular activities. If my comment in any way made their work more difficult, I sincerely apologize.

Sincerely,

Mike Rauch

Abbotsford School Trustee