Two transgender girls in New Hampshire, Parker Tirrell, 16, and Iris Turmelle, 15, have initiated the first legal challenge against U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order banning transgender girls from participating in female school sports. Their legal battle, which began with a lawsuit against a state law last year, has now expanded to directly oppose the federal administration’s policies on transgender rights in athletics.
Legal Background and Previous Ruling
In 2023, Tirrell and Turmelle, along with their parents, filed a lawsuit contesting a New Hampshire law that restricted transgender girls from playing in female school sports. Their case, supported by GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), argued that such laws violate constitutional rights and federal protections under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
In September 2023, U.S. District Judge Landya McCafferty, an Obama appointee, issued a preliminary injunction barring New Hampshire and its school districts from enforcing the law. The decision was a victory for the plaintiffs and allowed them to continue participating in their respective sports without legal interference.
Challenging Trump’s Executive Order
Building on their legal success, Tirrell and Turmelle are now broadening their lawsuit to take on Trump’s executive orders. These orders, issued on February 5, state that the U.S. government will only recognize two sexes—male and female—and will not acknowledge changes in sex. Additionally, the policies prohibit transgender women and girls from competing in female sports at the school level.
On Wednesday, Judge McCafferty granted permission for the plaintiffs to file an amended complaint, officially incorporating their challenge to Trump’s orders into their ongoing legal battle.
Arguments from Both Sides
The plaintiffs argue that Trump’s executive order is unconstitutional, citing violations of equal protection rights and Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded educational programs.
“School sports are an important part of education—something no child should be denied simply because of who they are,” said Chris Erchull, a lawyer for the plaintiffs at GLAD. “Denying transgender students the ability to participate is not only discriminatory but also harmful to their well-being and development.”
Conversely, the White House has defended the executive order, stating that it is legally sound and aligned with the will of the American people.
“Any legal challenge against it is nothing more than an attempt to undermine the will of the American people, who overwhelmingly elected President Trump to secure the border, revitalize the economy, and restore common-sense policies,” said Harrison Fields, a White House spokesperson.
Impact on Students and Schools
The lawsuit highlights the impact of these policies on transgender students and their educational experience. Tirrell, who plays soccer, and Turmelle, who hopes to try out for tennis in the spring, expressed concerns about the uncertainty surrounding their ability to participate in sports.
In court filings, the plaintiffs stated that their schools could face potential loss of federal funding for allowing transgender athletes to participate in female sports, creating an environment of fear and uncertainty.
The two students have also detailed their personal journeys, stating that they have identified as girls from an early age and have undergone puberty-blocking treatments and hormone therapy. According to their legal team, neither student has undergone testosterone-driven puberty, which is often cited as a reason for restricting transgender athletes in women’s sports.
The Broader Implications of the Case
This lawsuit represents a critical legal battle in the broader national debate over transgender rights in sports. Over the past few years, Republican-led states have enacted multiple laws restricting transgender participation in female athletics, arguing that such policies protect fairness in competition. Meanwhile, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and medical professionals contend that these laws target and discriminate against transgender youth, undermining their rights and mental well-being.
If successful, this case could set a precedent that challenges similar laws and executive orders across the country. The outcome could influence future federal rulings on Title IX interpretations and the legal recognition of transgender rights.
What Comes Next?
With their amended complaint now approved, Tirrell and Turmelle’s case will proceed through the judicial system, potentially leading to a high-profile courtroom battle that could reach higher courts. Given the significance of the case, advocacy groups on both sides are likely to be closely watching developments.
The lawsuit also adds to the growing legal scrutiny over Trump’s executive orders related to gender identity, with potential implications for future presidential administrations and policies on transgender rights.
As the case moves forward, it has the potential to shape the legal landscape surrounding transgender participation in school sports for years to come. For Tirrell and Turmelle, their fight is not just about athletics—it’s about their right to be recognized and included as equals in their educational and social communities.
