State Rep. Gina Johnsen, R-Portland, on Thursday released the following statement after she stood with members of the House Republican Women’s Caucus to demand the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) comply with federal orders to protect female athletics.

“I thoroughly enjoyed high school tennis, competing for a varsity letter, and enjoying the camaraderie of the team. Thinking back to my days on the tennis team, I am saddened to think about the challenges female athletes face today. When I was in high school, I didn’t have to worry about competing against a man who could fire the ball back at my face. My friends in soccer didn’t have to worry about getting cleated or run over by someone double their size. My friends in cheerleading didn’t have to worry about throwing someone in the air who convinced themselves they were both a boy and a flyer.

“That’s the reality girls face today. While they should be having fun, learning how to be a team player and making memories that are supposed to last their lifetimes, they’re worrying about their privacy and safety as men invade their locker rooms. It’s simply not safe and violates the integrity of the sport. That’s why the MHSAA has to make the right decision here.”

The MHSAA has refused to comply with an executive order issued last month by President Donald Trump prohibiting biological males from competing in girls and women’s sports. Yesterday, the Michigan House approved a bipartisan resolution, House Resolution 40, urging the MHSAA to protect girls’ sports and comply with the federal order.

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