A proposed ballot measure, Proposition 134, is slated for Colorado's 2026 ballot, seeking to prevent transgender children from participating in school sports. If approved by voters, this measure would restrict which teams students can join based on their “biological reproductive system.” The implications could directly affect students in Grand Junction and Mesa County schools who wish to participate in local athletic programs.
The measure would add specific language to state statute, defining boys and girls based on physical anatomy, thereby excluding transgender individuals from certain teams. Schools and athletic associations would be required to explicitly designate teams for men, women, or co-ed participation, and their athletic departments would need to adopt policies to implement these new requirements, according to the measure's language.
This initiative is one of two anti-transgender ballot measures backed by Protect Kids Colorado, an organization led by prominent anti-LGBTQ+ activist Erin Lee. Lee did not respond to questions about the measure's goals or implementation before publication. The proposal has ignited significant debate across the state, with opponents warning of its potential impact on children and school districts.
One anonymous mother, whose transgender daughter played basketball for nearly a decade from fourth grade through high school, spoke out against the measure. Her daughter was described as an average player who participated simply for her love of the sport, making friends and finding a healthy outlet. The mother expressed deep concern that such a measure would remove this opportunity for other children. The family requested anonymity due to safety concerns, stating they received a high volume of violent threats after being 'doxed' online, an experience that changed their 'entire world' and necessitated increased security.
Opposition to Proposition 134 is led by Families Not Politics, a coalition that includes LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations like One Colorado, Rocky Mountain Equality, the Transgender Law Center, and Inside Out Youth Services, alongside Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains and Cobalt, an abortion-rights organization. Dozens of other state organizations and Democratic elected officials also oppose the measure.
Andrew Ortiz, an attorney with the Transgender Law Center, said Proposition 134 would encourage "intense scrutiny" of young people's bodies and identities, particularly affecting Black and brown girls. Ortiz stated that the measure conflicts with the Colorado Anti-Discrimination Act and would likely lead to avoidable litigation for schools. He anticipates that the measure would "almost certainly" be challenged in court if it were to be approved by voters.
At a recent press conference held by Families Not Politics, Tee MacDonald, a retired Denver Public Schools teacher, emphasized the benefits of sports for students over decades, noting how participation builds confidence, discipline, and friendships. MacDonald stated that "Kids should not have to go through invasive and humiliating processes just to participate."
Jax Gonzalez, political director at One Colorado, described Proposition 134 as "so poorly written" and vague, making its practical implementation and the necessary school district policies unclear. Gonzalez noted that if approved, the measure would take effect on January 1, allowing less than two months for schools to adapt. Furthermore, Gonzalez said the measure's definitions of sex and gender could mean schools couldn't rely on existing records or birth certificates to determine a child's sex, potentially subjecting more than just transgender children to new verification processes.
The mother of the transgender daughter also voiced concerns that the measure could harm all children and interfere with parents' abilities to make decisions for their own kids. She warned that if such a measure passes, children of all identities could be subjected to invasive checks, stating, "When your kid gets pulled in for an inspection to see what genitalia they have, it’s going to be too late."
Gonzalez, who is trans, acknowledged that voters may have questions about transgender identities and participation in sports. However, Gonzalez pointed to existing policies and rules, such as those from the Colorado High School Activities Association, which already work to ensure sports are accessible and safe for all children. Gonzalez advocated for local school districts and families, who know their children best, to continue making these decisions rather than imposing a blanket state law.
The mother shared that her daughter's journey in basketball began in fourth grade when a coach, aware of her transgender identity, welcomed her to the girl's team. For nearly a decade, her daughter played on various teams, including recreation leagues, club teams, and middle and high school teams, all of which were receptive to her participation. During most of this time, the mother said, no complaints or concerns about her daughter being transgender arose, and her teammates became like family.
Participating in the girl's basketball team in high school did not prevent any other girl from joining, as everyone who wanted to play made the team. The mother recalled how basketball was a crucial outlet, allowing her daughter to shed stress and be "the happiest kid on the court." She missed only three games over a nearly 10-year career.
The mother urged Colorado voters to remember the human element when considering Proposition 134, highlighting that the children who would be harmed by it cannot vote or publicly voice their experiences due to what she called "ongoing national attacks on trans kids." She concluded by emphasizing, "These are children. You are legislating a child’s right to exist."
