NW Illinois News

Li Arellano, a state senator for Illinois' District 37, expressed his views on the participation of transgender athletes in female-only sports. He said that it is "deeply unfair to have biological males competing against biological females in competitive high school female-only sports," and added his support for ensuring that the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) and the State of Illinois adhere to guidelines on this matter. Arellano made these remarks in a Facebook post on March 21.

"It is deeply unfair to have biological males competing against biological females in competitive high school female-only sports," said Li Arellano Jr., according to Facebook. "That simple piece of common sense has been growing in public support, even across party lines, and I join my colleagues in seeking to ensure that IHSA and the State of Illinois follow guidelines in this regard."

According to Arellano, he is among 19 senators who signed a letter addressed to the IHSA, questioning its plans to align with an executive order signed by President Donald J. Trump. This order aims to protect single-sex sports for female athletes. The letter was directed to IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson and highlighted concerns about the IHSA's policy allowing transgender students to request eligibility based on gender identity. The lawmakers requested written details on how the IHSA intends to comply with the federal directive.

Screenshot of State Senator Li Arellano's March 21 Facebook post | State Senator Li Arellano Jr.'s Facebook page

The IHSA has been adapting its policies since 2011 based on guidance from medical experts and state law, as said by Anderson on February 5. The organization committed to monitoring legislative changes and collaborating with its Board of Directors to ensure compliance with state law. Currently, IHSA policy mandates that transgender students receive an eligibility ruling before participating in events aligned with their gender identity, requiring schools to submit requests along with proof of consistent gender identity.

The executive order issued on February 5 calls for private sporting bodies to gather at the White House, where they will hear stories from female athletes affected by injuries and other issues related to competition against male athletes in women's sports categories. It emphasizes the impact on women's opportunities and privacy, noting losses in medals, roster spots, playing time, and resources due to perceived biological advantages.

Arellano previously served as mayor of Dixon, Illinois, starting in 2015. During his tenure, he focused on fiscal integrity, infrastructure improvement, and economic development. After completing two terms as mayor without seeking reelection for a third term due to pledged term limits, he returned to the private sector. He currently owns two Jimmy John’s franchises, a frozen yogurt shop called The Frosted Spoon, and a commercial property leasing company. Additionally, Arellano serves as a Sergeant in the U.S.