Skate Canada Ends Alberta Events Over Controversial Sports Gender Law
Skate Canada has announced that it will no longer host national and international events in Alberta. This decision comes in response to the province’s controversial Fairness and Safety in Sport Act. This law, which restricts transgender athletes from competing in female-only sports, took effect on September 1, 2023.
Reasons for the Decision
In a statement released on Tuesday, Skate Canada emphasized that it cannot uphold its commitment to safety and inclusivity under the current legal framework in Alberta. Consequently, the organization has halted plans for future events in the province.
Impact on Events
- No national or international events will be held in Alberta as of now.
- Alberta athletes can still participate in Skate Canada programming and competitions.
The last major event, the 2025-26 Skate Canada Challenge, took place in Calgary from November 27 to 30. Calgary also hosted the 2024 national championships, demonstrating the city’s previous active role in the skating community.
With this recent decision, Skate Canada continues to prioritize an inclusive environment for all athletes while navigating the complex issues surrounding sports legislation and gender identity.