Tennessee Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn marked “American Girls in Sports Day” on October 10 by urging her followers to join the celebration of women’s sports. In a statement released on Thursday, Blackburn highlighted the significance of the date, which is represented by the Roman numerals XX – the same numerals as the female sex chromosome.
In May, Senator Blackburn filed a resolution that aimed to make October 10 a day dedicated to celebrating women in sports. The move sought to preserve the legacy and advancements made under Title IX, which has ensured equal opportunities for women in educational programs and activities since its enactment nearly half a century ago. However, Senator Blackburn expressed concern over the Biden administration’s attempts to change the world of athletics as we know it.
Riley Gains, a prominent women’s sports activist, supported the resolution and was joined by other high-profile athletes in their backing of the plan. They acknowledged that courageous women like Senator Blackburn, Wilma Rudolph, and Pat Head Summitt paved the way for women to serve and compete at the highest levels in sports. The day’s celebrations were co-sponsored by 37 other senators, as well as several prominent organizations such as Caitlyn Jenner, Sage Steele, Independent Women’s Forum, Concerned Women for America, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Family Policy Alliance, Alliance Defending Freedom, and Parents Defending Education Action.
Despite the widespread support, the resolution was blocked by Democrats in September, preventing the official establishment of “American Girls in Sports Day.” Senator Blackburn expressed her disappointment in this move, stating that women’s athletics have made incredible strides for women, yet it is deeply troubling to see the Biden-Harris administration engage in a war on women’s sports.
Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of recognizing the fundamental biological differences between men and women when it comes to sports. In her statement, she argued that these differences undermine fair play, erase women’s hard-earned achievements, and put female athletes in danger.