Decision Marks Historic Victory, But the Fight for Fairness Continues
June 30, 2026 — Athletes for Action applauds today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming that states have the authority to protect girls’ and women’s sports by maintaining sex-based athletic competition. The ruling is a landmark victory for female athletes, parents, coaches, and advocates who have spent years working to preserve the fairness, safety, and opportunities that Title IX was intended to protect.
“This is a day worth celebrating,” said Paula Scanlan, Executive Director of Athletes for Action. “For countless girls and women who have spoken up, often at great personal cost, today’s decision is an affirmation that their voices matter. It reinforces the simple truth that women deserve fair competition and equal opportunity in sports.”
The Court’s decision provides important legal clarity for states that have enacted laws protecting female athletic competition. While today’s ruling represents significant progress, Athletes for Action believes the work to protect women’s sports is far from complete. Many states still lack protections for girls’ and women’s sports, and policies across schools, athletic associations, and governing bodies remain inconsistent.
“Today’s decision is a major step forward, but it is not the finish line,” said Liz Harris, Founder of Athletes for Action. “Every girl deserves the opportunity to compete on a level playing field, regardless of where she lives. We are more encouraged than ever to continue building a nationwide movement that protects the integrity of women’s sports and ensures future generations of female athletes have the opportunities they have earned.”
Since its founding, Athletes for Action has worked alongside athletes, parents, coaches, policymakers, and supporters across the country to elevate the voices of women and girls and advocate for policies that preserve fairness in female athletics.
“We are incredibly grateful to the courageous athletes, families, and advocates who refused to stay silent,” Harris continued. “Their perseverance helped bring our country to this moment. Today’s victory belongs to them, and we look forward to continuing this work until every girl and woman can compete with the fairness, dignity, and safety she deserves.”
About Athletes for Action
Athletes for Action is dedicated to protecting fairness and equal opportunity for girls and women in sports. Through advocacy, education, and grassroots engagement, Athletes for Action empowers athletes and communities to defend the integrity of women’s athletics and ensure that future generations of female competitors have the opportunities they have earned.
