Controversy at Club BPS: president rejects exceptions and doctor defends that 'transgender children exist'

A deeply concerning incident at Club BPS in Uruguay has ignited a fierce debate surrounding the rights and inclusion of transgender children. The family of six-year-old Joaqui, who identifies as a girl, reported that she was denied entry to the women's changing room, a space she had previously used with her mother. This decision, communicated by club officials, has rightly drawn widespread criticism and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by transgender individuals in accessing public spaces.

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Transgender children exist, there is no age at which people 'begin to transition an identification'.

Fernanda Fossati, Joaqui's mother, recounted the distressing experience, explaining that the club initially required a formal letter to the institution detailing the situation to obtain permission for Joaqui to use the women's facilities. Later, the family was reportedly told that Joaqui would either have to use the men's changing room or forgo swimming lessons altogether. This ultimatum places an unfair burden on a child and her family, forcing them to choose between their child's identity and participation in activities.

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There is a lot of scientific evidence that accompanying them greatly improves the expectation and quality of life for these people.

In stark contrast to the club's stance, Dr. Leticia Valle Lisboa, the family's physician, powerfully affirmed the existence of transgender children. She emphasized that there is no set age for individuals to begin understanding or expressing their gender identity, and that accompanying and supporting these children is crucial for their well-being. Dr. Valle Lisboa stressed the importance of repudiating discriminatory attitudes and creating safe spaces where all children can be respected for who they are. The club president's assertion that "exceptions are the mother of corruption" and his insistence on rigid adherence to rules, even when they harm a child's sense of self, reveals a troubling lack of empathy and understanding. This case underscores the urgent need for greater awareness, education, and inclusive policies within community organizations to ensure that all individuals, especially vulnerable children, feel safe, respected, and valued.

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We must commit ourselves and repudiate attitudes that are discriminatory, care for our children, respecting their identity [to] be able to inhabit spaces safely.