Roller derby league prevails as court strikes down Nassau transgender athlete ban
The New York Civil Liberties Union challenged the law after it was enacted in 2024 on behalf of the Long Island Roller Rebels, a women’s roller derby league that includes transgender athletes.
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A controversial law banning transgender athletes from participating in female sports at Nassau County facilities was overturned by an appeals court Wednesday.
The New York Civil Liberties Union challenged the law after it was enacted in 2024 on behalf of the Long Island Roller Rebels, a women’s roller derby league that includes transgender athletes.
The appeals court ruled that the local law violates New York State’s Human Rights Law and Civil Rights Law, which prohibit discrimination based on gender identity, saying that it is also sex discrimination. The ruling also said that the local law was invalid on the basis that it violated the Constitution and the municipal home rule law.
“Amid relentless attacks on transgender people, today the court delivered a resounding win for trans people in New York. The Roller Rebels want trans women to know that they are welcome to join our league, and trans people belong in Nassau County,” said Curly Fry, president of the Long Island Roller Rebels. “We are proud to come together in solidarity to push back against any idea that trans women should be excluded or shut out of public life. We deserve the joy of playing as our authentic selves, free from discrimination. Trans athletes aren’t going anywhere.”
In a statement to News 12, Nassau County Attorney Thomas Adams said, "We are reviewing the decision with the intention of continuing the appeals process."
