The Headlines: How Basketball Australia Attacked a Trans Woman

April 19, 2023

Lexi Rodgers’ Basketball Ban

Warning: This section deals with the topic of targeted violence against trans and gender-diverse people and may be triggering for some readers.

How many times do we have to go over this? Trans women are women. Trans rights are human rights. And to believe anything less is to steal the humanity from a vulnerable group of people. To deny them opportunities based on their gender’s a violent attack.

On April 19, Basketball Australia denied Lexi Rodgers from playing for the Kilsyth Cobras in the WNBL1 South league. Rodgers is a trans woman who just wants to enjoy this sport.

Understandably, this decision upset Rodgers.

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A post shared by Lexi Rodgers (@lexi.love.rodgers)

“I sought a different outcome from Basketball Australia,” said Rodgers in a statement. “I participated fully and in good faith with the process and eligibility criteria. Consistent with the views expressed by so many, I firmly believe I have a place as an athlete in women’s basketball.”

“I hope Basketball Australia understands that this is not the end of my journey as an athlete and that it must not miss future opportunities to demonstrate its values. I am sad about the potential message this decision sends to trans and gender diverse people everywhere. I hope that one day basketball’s governing body can replicate the inclusion and acceptance I have found on the court with my teammates.”

In response to this situation, Basketball Australia has said, “As the governing body, we acknowledge we’re still on a path of education and understanding. To aid us in developing our framework, Lexi will provide feedback and advice from her experiences.”

Basketball Australia has also asserted that Lexi Rodgers can reapply if she wishes to. However, if she does, let’s hope she’s not on the end of another brutal attack.

If this section brings up any issues for you or anyone you know, or you have experienced targeted violence, please contact Lifeline (13 11 14), Kids Helpline (1800 55 1800), both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.

Netflix Is Shutting Down Its DVD Business

A graphic of a Netflix DVD. — Image: Netflix

In other news, Netflix is no longer mailing DVDs in America. That’s right, Netflix mailed people DVDs. What’s more, they were doing this long before they launched their streaming service.

“After an incredible 25 year run, we’ve decided to wind down DVD.com later this year,” said Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s Co-CEO. “Our goal has always been to provide the best service for our members, but as the business continues to shrink, that’s going to become increasingly difficult.”

“To everyone who ever added a DVD to their queue or waited by the mailbox for a red envelope to arrive: Thank you.”

Instagram to Allow Five Links in Our Bios

Meanwhile, in some positivity, Instagram is now allowing its users to add five website links into their bios. So, if you ever wanted to plug five articles by Joel Edwin Burrows, then now’s your time to shine.