USA Fencing to cooperate with federal investigation into transgender fencer Redmond Sullivan

USA Fencing is currently under scrutiny as a federal investigation looms over an incident that took place at one of its events. The controversy arose when female fencer Stephanie Turner decided to take a knee in protest of competing against a transgender athlete, Redmond Sullivan, at the Cherry Blossom Open in Maryland on March 30.

The incident quickly gained national attention after a video of Turner’s protest went viral, sparking a debate on USA Fencing’s gender eligibility policies. Turner’s disqualification from the event and subsequent removal from the venue only added fuel to the fire.

In response to the investigation, USA Fencing released a statement indicating its willingness to cooperate with the authorities. This move comes as Education Secretary Linda McMahon announced the involvement of the Title IX investigations team, in collaboration with the US Department of Education and Department of Justice.

Turner explained that she made the decision to protest the night before the event upon realizing she would be facing Sullivan in competition. She expressed frustration with USA Fencing for not addressing women’s concerns regarding its gender eligibility policy, which was implemented in 2023. This policy allows transgender athletes to participate in the women’s category after completing one year of testosterone suppression treatment.

In addition to hormone therapy requirements, USA Fencing has gone a step further by prioritizing trans competitors, as evidenced by its selection of host cities for national tournaments based on LGBTQ-friendly and reproductive health laws. Despite calls for a re-evaluation of its transgender inclusion policy from organizations like the Fair Fencing Organization, USA Fencing’s board members voted against making any changes.

Now, as the Title IX investigation looms, USA Fencing faces potential federal sanctions for its handling of the situation. The newly formed Title IX investigations team aims to protect female athletes from the impacts of gender ideology in sports programs and activities.

The outcome of this investigation will likely have far-reaching implications for USA Fencing and its policies regarding transgender inclusion in women’s fencing competitions. It remains to be seen how the organization will navigate this challenging issue in the future.