In 2009, Caster Semenya easily won the 800 meter race at the World Championships. But she was so dominant, authorities demanded she get tested to see if she’s really a woman!
The tests confirmed that she is, and has what’s called “hyperandrogenism,” which means her body naturally produces more testosterone than is typical.
Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps has a host of body anomalies that give him an advantage in swimming. But no one is arguing that these advantages are unfair!
According to Dr. Richard Weiner, a sports physician, “Physical advantages aren't sufficient on their own. You also have to have talent and technique.”
Arguing that exceptional bodies gives athletes an unfair advantage seems to be reserved for Black women.
The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAFF)’s new ruling requires that women like Semenya take drugs to lower their testosterone levels. Aren’t athletes supposed to AVOID body-altering drugs in professional sports?
What’s worse is that the evidence they used for this decision appears to have MAJOR issues in both its data AND its conclusions.
The scrutiny of Black women’s bodies has to stop. Caster Semenya is unique and exceptional, and should be celebrated!