The British Columbia Federation of Students (BCFS) exists to fight for fully accessible education in the province. An important part of this fight is ensuring that all students—especially those from marginalized communities—can learn, participate, and thrive in safe and supportive campus environments. Students deserve to have their rights, dignity and well-being upheld on their campuses, and in all aspects of their student life, including athletics.

The BCFS is proud to reaffirm its unwavering support for trans athletes and the broader 2SLGBTQIA+ community, in light of recent developments in the Pacific Western Athletic Association (PACWEST). We stand with our member local, the Vancouver Island University Students' Union (VIUSU), and all student organisations calling for stronger commitments to equity and inclusion.

Holding the Line Against Discrimination

Following an investigation into a transphobic incident during the October 2024 women’s basketball game between Columbia Bible College (CBC) and the VIU Mariners, PACWEST took the necessary step of suspending the CBC women’s basketball head coach. While this disciplinary action marked progress toward addressing discrimination in sports, subsequent events have raised new concerns.

In the aftermath of the suspension, the CBC team launched a public campaign, and the coach has taken legal action in an attempt to overturn the suspension. These moves threaten to undermine the essential steps taken to combat discrimination and could send a disheartening message to trans athletes and their allies throughout PACWEST.

Trans Athletes Deserve Safe and Inclusive Sports

Sports should be a safe and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of gender identity. Trans athletes deserve the right to participate fully and equitably without fear of harassment or exclusion. At a time when 2SLGBTQIA+ communities are facing increased hostility and discrimination, student unions, institutions, and governing bodies must take action to reject transphobia, and champion policies that protect students' rights.

When incidents like this arise, accountability is not just about responding to the moment; it’s about setting a standard for the future. Attempts to reverse disciplinary action not only put the safety of athletes at risk but also undermine trust in the systems designed to protect them. This is a pivotal moment for PACWEST to demonstrate leadership and reaffirm its commitment to inclusivity, fairness, and safety for all athletes.

Calls to Action

We call on PACWEST to:

• Stand firm against external pressures to reinstate the suspended coach, prioritizing the safety and well-being of all athletes.
• Reaffirm its commitment to creating and maintaining a safe, equitable, and inclusive sports environment for everyone.
• Call on the CBC Bearcats to publicly commit to fair and safe play by clearly stating that harassment, discrimination, and hate have no place in their organization, and that they will fully respect and uphold eligibility rules for trans athletes.
• Implement comprehensive safety planning practices to protect the well-being of all athletes, with specific measures to ensure the inclusion and safety of trans athletes.

Discrimination has no place in sports - or anywhere. Leadership means standing with marginalized communities, taking decisive action, and ensuring that every athlete is treated with dignity and respect. We urge PACWEST to seize this opportunity to lead by example and show that inclusivity is not just a policy but a fundamental value.

The BCFS remains committed to its support for trans athletes across the PACWEST Conference, and for our members who are part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Trans rights are human rights, and we will continue to fight for policies that affirm and protect 2SLGBTQIA+ students in every aspect of campus life.

In solidarity,

The BC Federation of Students Executive Committee.