In the weeks since we first released the TAP policy, members of our community have expressed sadness, worry, confusion, and frustration. We hear you. Please know that we never intended to harm anyone. We are trying to balance opportunities to compete with fairness for everyone and are sorry for any distress we may have caused or allowed.

USA Climbing values and supports transgender participation in climbing. Each member of our community has the right to be part of the sport we love, to compete, and to feel safe, including LGBTQIA+ athletes. Climbing is for everyone.

USA Climbing has been working diligently and carefully, not hastily, to revise the TAP policy. While we recognize that it must align with IFSC policies and requirements, it is important to us that it also be respectful and protective of the communities that are directly impacted. For these reasons, today we are initiating a feedback period on the TAP policy for all members of the USA Climbing community. Starting now through Sunday, January 14, members can provide constructive feedback on the policy – members, please check your email or click here to access the survey. To encourage participation from everyone comments submitted will be confidential.

At the end of the comment period, we will review all the feedback and use it to revise the policy. While we will do our best to address as many concerns as possible, this is a delicate task. We anticipate that some of you will still be unhappy with the result.

Note that if the TAP policy issued this fall hindered your participation in qualifying events, you may contact us at eligibility@usaclimbing.org no later than January 8, 2024, to request advancement to compete at your Regional Championship.

In the meantime, thank you for your engagement, and best wishes for the holiday season.

Sincerely,

Marc Norman
President & Chief Executive Officer
USA Climbing

Kate Di Pietro
Chair, Board of Directors
USA Climbing