Intersex Asia Stands with Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting: A Call to End Gender-based Cyberbullying and Misinformation

[Taiwan] — Intersex Asia expresses our unwavering support for female boxers Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting who have recently faced mass online abuse on social media due to unfounded controversies regarding their gender. We stand in solidarity with Imane and all women, including intersex women and those born with variations in sex characteristics. We affirm that every woman deserves recognition for who they are and the right to live their life fully, including the right to participate and compete in sports events like The Olympics without discrimination.

Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-Ting were born and registered as female. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially acknowledged that all athletes who participated in the game, including her, comply with the competition’s eligibility and entry regulations. Claims suggesting that they are transgender, a “man” or “male” are completely incorrect and lack credible evidence. As such, they have every right to compete in the program. The IOC has released an official statement reinforcing their eligibility to participate in Olympic boxing events. It is crucial that we respect the IOC’s official statement and acknowledge Imane’s identity as a female athlete.

The recent wave of cyberbullying directed at Imane, Lin, and other female athletes who may not conform to traditional gender norms is not just harmful; it is a reflection of a larger societal issue. Women in sports, particularly those who are intersex or have muscular physiques, and are persons of color often face increased scrutiny and discrimination that undermines their achievements and dignity. While Imane and Lin have never described themselves as intersex, this harassment toward them is based on pure unfound speculation, and stereotypes about physical appearance and can have severe emotional and psychological impacts, discouraging talented athletes from pursuing their dreams and participating in competitive sports.

In light of the recent developments, Intersex Asia,  in collaboration with  Intersex Philippines and Campaign for Change Nepal,  is urgently calling for an immediate cessation of the cyberbullying targeting Imane Khelif, Lin Yu-Ting and other female boxers who have been unjustly targeted due to misconceptions about their gender. We call for respect, understanding, and an end to discrimination based on gender stereotypes, gender identity and sex characteristics. 

We also urge both local and international media to exercise responsibility in their reporting. The dissemination of unverified or misleading information can have far-reaching consequences, not only impacting the reputations of athletes but also maintaining damaging misconceptions and bias against individuals born with a range of sex characteristics. It is critical for journalists and media outlets to uphold the highest ethical standards, ensuring that their reporting is grounded with accuracy and delivered with respect. 

The time for change is now. We must foster an environment of respect and understanding, allowing all athletes to compete without any kinds of uncertified fact of harassment and prejudice. Everyone has the right to practice and compete in sports without discrimination! Those who defamed and attacked female athletes without evidence should sincerely apologize openly.

About Intersex Asia

Intersex Asia is a Taiwan-based regional network organization advocating for the rights and recognition of intersex individuals across Asia. We strive to promote awareness, support, and equality for all intersex people, ensuring their voices are heard and respected. To learn the basics about intersex, please refer to this article.

For more information, please contact: communication@intersexasia.com. 

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