Several Canadian sports organizations have declared their opposition to Skate Canada’s decision to boycott national and international events in Alberta due to a newly enacted law prohibiting transgender girls and women from participating in women’s sports. Hockey Canada, Speed Skating Canada, Curling Canada, Boxing Canada, and Table Tennis Canada have all affirmed their intention to proceed with hosting events in the province. Jeremy Knight, a spokesperson for Hockey Canada, emphasized that there are no current plans to modify their event schedule.
Curling Canada’s spokesperson, Al Cameron, echoed a similar sentiment, stating that the organization does not intend to relocate events out of Alberta. He highlighted the substantial financial repercussions such a move would have on Curling Alberta and local clubs hosting events. The legislation in Alberta permits only athletes assigned female at birth to compete in women’s sports and is part of a series of laws protected by the government through the notwithstanding clause to prevent legal challenges.
Despite Skate Canada’s stance, other Canadian sports bodies have not followed suit. Speed Skating Canada’s CEO, Joe Morissette, expressed the organization’s commitment to inclusivity but underscored the importance of being practical, especially considering their training center in Calgary and the numerous championships hosted in the region annually. Similarly, Christopher Lindsay, the executive director of Boxing Canada, confirmed that their organization plans to continue holding competitions in Alberta, irrespective of Skate Canada’s decision.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith criticized Skate Canada’s move as “disgraceful” and demanded an apology, pointing out that even the International Olympic Committee is reassessing its definition of female sports. Wrestling Canada Lutte, responsible for Olympic-style wrestling, is still evaluating the law’s implications and has yet to decide on potential changes to its event hosting policies.