Trans Athlete's Mother Delivers Impassioned Speech After Team Boycott: 'My Daughter is Not the Issue'

A heartfelt moment unfolded recently as AB Hernandez's mother delivered a poignant speech after a girls' volleyball team decided not even play rather than face her daughter, a transgender athlete.

Controversy over forfeited match

AB Hernandez, a committed student-athlete from Jurupa Valley High School in California, was all set and ready, game face on, when Riverside Poly High School, their opponents on August 15, decided not play. They forfeited, directly because Hernandez was set on that court. The school issued a statement saying they regretted it, mentioning, “We know this disappoints our athletes, families, and supporters. We value your understanding and are committed throughout this season more than ever, ensuring a safe, positive environment.”

The decision predictably sparked a heated debate. Parents in talks with local media confirmed Hernandez's participation was indeed what led Riverside Poly's management, not its players, choose forfeiture.

Reactions from people in town

Amid all this controversy, Amanda Vickers, from Riverside Unified School District board, shared her thoughts. “Biological girls and boys are different,” she said, adding, “and tonight, Riverside Poly's girls won't go through what happened with Payton McNabb.” She referred back in time — remember? — when Payton McNabb, a high school volleyball player, reportedly suffered a severe head injury in 2022 from a ball hit by a transgender player, claiming it led brain damage.

A mother stands strong

Following this match cancellation, Nereyda, AB Hernandez's mother, wasn't silent. She stood firm at a school board meeting, passionately advocating her daughter's right and challenging that notorious decision. “You sit on this board with a duty,” she declared. “A duty not just towards kids whose ideas you like, but all kids. My daughter isn't what's wrong here. It's these orchestrated, fear-driven external efforts using religion as a guise, making parents rally against each other.”

She insisted on a broader perspective, stating, “This isn't about sports fairness at all. It targets erasing transgender children.”

Fostering inclusivity and understanding

This situation shines a glaring spotlight on debates around transgender athletes and their tough battles in sports. Nereyda's words, while defending her daughter, urged everyone toward a kinder, more supportive environment, embracing all students, irrespective gender identity.

It ultimately calls school boards, parents, and communities alike, urging them work hand in hand, nurturing a secure, inviting space every student-athlete deserves. Moving forward constructively requires listening, respecting all voices.

Jurupa Valley High School's scene emphasizes critical necessity: engendering inclusivity within schools and athletic realms. By bravely facing these dialogues, encouraging respectful exchange, we can work together shaping a fairer future every student.

We invite you share thoughts below, joining this valuable conversation, respectfully and openly discussing this important topic.