Breanna Stewart wants a safe space as transgender debate sparks rallies at Fever games

Key Points:

• New York Liberty star Breanna Stewart emphasized the WNBA as an inclusive and safe space for fans and players, amid recent debates over transgender women’s participation in the league.
• The controversy escalated after Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham publicly opposed transgender women competing in women’s sports, leading to protests and planned rallies around WNBA games.
• The league’s collective bargaining agreement limits participation to women but does not specify rules regarding gender identity or sex assigned at birth, and no transgender woman has yet played in the WNBA.
• Stewart urged respect for differing opinions while condemning attempts to divide players and teams, reaffirming the league’s commitment to inclusivity and safe environments for all.
• As an LGBTQ+ ally, Stewart has supported transgender youth by donating royalties from a Harry Potter-themed shoe to The Trevor Project, despite some backlash related to the author’s controversial views.