By Kaylee Kruschke
Murphy News Service 

Minneapolis  leaders have expressed their support for the Minnesota State High School League’s Transgender Athlete Policy.

The Minneapolis Civil Rights Commission passed a resolution Nov. 17, in support of MSHSL’s proposed policy titled, “Participation in MSHSL Activities by Transgender Student Athletes.”

The MSHSL policy passed today allows transgender students to participate in athletics regardless of their gender identity.

“We believe such policy updates will help ensure that public schools are in compliance with local, state and federal laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment of transgender students,” said City Council Vice President Elizabeth Glidden.

The resolution said, “Transgender people in Minneapolis face high levels of discrimination” and Transgender youth deal with bullying and harassment, which can result in a loss of opportunities in school.

“All students should be able to participate in school activities regardless of gender identity,” the resolution said.

Michael Harralson, chair of the Civil Rights Commission, said: “The Commission is proud to stand with the City’s Transgender Issues Workgroup and Council Member Glidden in support of the MSHSL’s proposed transgender student athlete policy in hopes that the policy will lead to a fuller, more enjoyable experience for all of Minnesota’s student athletes.”