Former collegiate swimmer Riley Gaines delivered a powerful opening statement at a Senate hearing titled "Protecting Pride: Defending the Civil Rights of LGBTQ+ Americans." Gaines recounted her experience competing against transgender swimmer Lia Thomas at the 2022 NCAA championships, where they tied for fifth place in the 200-yard freestyle. Gaines described how the NCAA prioritized Thomas for the trophy presentation and photo opportunity, leaving Gaines feeling "betrayed, belittled, and reduced to a photo-op." She argued that the NCAA's actions, driven by a desire to accommodate Thomas's feelings, disregarded the feelings of female athletes and violated Title IX by allowing a biological male to displace female athletes. Gaines's testimony also addressed the issue of locker room sharing, where she and other female swimmers were forced to share a space with Thomas, a biological male. Gaines emphasized the lack of prior notice or consent, expressing the discomfort, embarrassment, and trauma experienced by some of the women. She described witnessing the tears of athletes who missed All-American honors due to Thomas's participation and the anger and frustration of those who had dedicated their lives to reaching the championship level. Gaines concluded by highlighting the threats, intimidation, and emotional blackmail faced by female athletes who voiced opposition to Thomas's inclusion in women's sports.
