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| - Last Updated on July 12, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A post on X claims that Nikki Hiltz is a biological man and is set to compete with females in the Olympics, representing the USA. Our fact check reveals it’s False.
The Claim
According to a post on X (formerly Twitter):
Fact Check
Who is Nikki Hiltz?
Nikki Hiltz is an American professional athlete who specialises in middle-distance running events, particularly the 1,500 metres. Hiltz has been a prominent figure in the track and field community and has achieved considerable success in their sporting career. Hiltz’s achievements include numerous national titles and international competitions, showcasing their talent and dedication to the sport. Hiltz has also been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility within the sports community, using their platform to raise awareness and support for inclusivity.
Can a transgender person participate in the Olympics?
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has guidelines that allow transgender athletes to compete. According to the IOC’s current rules, transgender women can compete in the women’s category if their testosterone levels have been below a certain threshold for at least 12 months before their first competition. These guidelines aim to ensure fair competition while also respecting the identities of transgender athletes.
Is Nikki Hiltz a biological man and will be competing with females?
No, Nikki Hiltz is not a biological man. Nikki Hiltz was assigned female at birth and has openly identified as transgender and nonbinary since 2021, using they/them pronouns. This information directly contradicts the claim that Hiltz is a “biological man.” Under “Basic Information” on Hiltz’s profile on the USA Track & Field website, their gender is “female.”
In a post on March 31, 2021, on Hiltz’s verified Instagram account, Hiltz came out as transgender and nonbinary, explaining:
“Hi I’m Nikki and I’m transgender. That means I don’t identify with the gender I was assigned at birth. The word I use currently to describe my gender is non-binary. The best way I can explain my gender is as fluid. Sometimes I wake up feeling like a powerful queen and other days I wake up feeling as if I’m just a guy being a dude, and other times I identify outside of the gender binary entirely.”
Hiltz’s Instagram profile biography includes the gender pronouns “they/them.”
Additionally, an article from Runner’s World Magazine, published on April 30, 2021, reported that Hiltz acknowledged being assigned female at birth and began questioning their gender identity at an early age. Hiltz shared:
“And by coming out, I fulfilled a wish I made on my 26th birthday, 20 years after I wished I would wake up a boy. I wished that by my next birthday, I would be ready to come out and live openly as trans. And I am.”
A FOX News article from July 2, 2024, also confirmed that Hiltz is a “biological female who identifies as transgender non-binary” and qualified for the U.S. Women’s 2024 Olympic Team after winning the 1,500-metre race at the Olympic trials, setting a new meet record.
How are gender identities and sports eligibility verified?
In elite sports, athletes’ eligibility depends on specific criteria set by governing bodies such as the IOC. For transgender athletes, these criteria generally involve hormone levels, particularly testosterone, which are monitored to ensure fair competition.
Why is accurate representation important in sports?
Accurate representation of athletes’ identities is important for strengthening an inclusive environment. Misrepresenting or misgendering athletes not only spreads misinformation but also undermines the efforts towards equality and respect in sports.
What impact do such claims have on the athletes?
False claims and rumours about an athlete’s gender identity can have significant negative impacts on their mental health and public perception. It can also lead to unnecessary scrutiny and discrimination, detracting from their athletic achievements and personal journey.
Conclusion
The claim that Nikki Hiltz is a biological man is false. Hiltz was assigned female at birth and identifies as transgender and nonbinary. They are competing in the Olympics in accordance with the rules and guidelines set forth by the governing bodies of the sport. Accurate information and representation are essential for an inclusive and respectful environment for all athletes. Individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community are particularly vulnerable to misinformation and prejudices, like people calling gender dysphoria a virus, or terming transgender a mental disorder. Like we said earlier, cross check every information you see online before trusting it.
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