NAACP Stands with Transgender Athletes Following Supreme Court Ruling
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 30, 2026
Contact: communications@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – The NAACP condemns the Supreme Court's decision in Little v. Hecox, upholding state laws banning transgender youth athletes from competing in sports that align with individual identity. This ruling does not protect fairness. It targets children. And it sends a dangerous message to every trans young person in America: that the highest court in the land does not acknowledge their full humanity.
Kristen Clarke, General Counsel of the NAACP, released the following statement:
"We condemn the Supreme Court's ruling banning kids from sports teams simply because of who they are. Our schools should be safe spaces for all children and provide access and opportunity for everyone. There is nothing American about banning trans youth from sports teams simply for being themselves.
"For Black transgender students, this ruling compounds a reality that is already exhausting and already life-threatening. To be Black and trans in America is to face discrimination based on your LGBTQ+ identity at every intersection — in the classroom, in the community, and now, on the playing field. Transgender youth are more than four times as likely to attempt suicide as their peers.
"Sports are not a luxury. They are community. They are belonging. They are the daily, tangible affirmation that these students matter and that they have a place. Stripping that from any child is cruel. Stripping it from the most vulnerable among us is unconscionable."
The NAACP will always stand with the transgender community. Despite this Court's shameful ruling, we will continue standing up for the dignity and humanity of every young person in our country, including our trans youth.
The NAACP calls on Congress to pass the Equality Act and establish full civil rights protections for LGBTQIA+ Americans — including transgender youth so every person in this country can be protected from discrimination.
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.