CAMAS — Girls from Skyview, Battle Ground, and Camas high schools will gather Wednesday, October 21, for “Camas Courage: Support Our Girls,” a rally and press conference supporting girls’ sports and fair play.
Multiple girls will speak publicly for the first time about their experiences and feelings about competing against a male athlete in girls’ cross-country. They will explain, in their own words, why protecting girls’ athletic opportunities matters to them and why they have decided to speak out.
Parents will also share their perspectives and concerns. Joining them will be Francis Staudt, who began speaking out on this issue at age 14 after a boy participated on her volleyball team.
Senator John Braun, Representative David Stuebe, and Senator Paul Harris will attend. Formal press conference speakers will include the girls, parents, and Staudt.
The event follows the October 13 cross-country meet in Camas, where girls walked away from the race in protest. Organizer Amy E. Sousa’s footage of that moment spread widely after journalist and commentator Brandi Kruse shared it, crediting Sousa.
Watch the footage: Brandi Kruse’s post featuring video by Amy E. Sousa.
The rally will bring together athletes, families, and community supporters to call for preserving girls’ sports as a sex-based category. Organizers want the public and policymakers to hear directly from the girls affected by eligibility policies—and to take their concerns seriously.
“The girls have spoken through their actions. Now we want them to know that adults are taking the reins,” said organizer Amy E. Sousa. “Girls shouldn’t have to become political activists to protect their athletic opportunities. They deserve fair competition.
“The Camas School District, led by Superintendent John Anzalone, has pointed to existing laws and rules to explain its position. Our message to school and state officials is simple: You don’t need a permission slip for courage. Leadership requires adults willing to take a personal stand, even when it’s uncomfortable.
“Washington voters also have an opportunity to act. Vote YES on Initiative 638 to protect fairness in girls’ sports.”
EVENT DETAILS
- What: Camas Courage: Support Our Girls — Rally and Press Conference
- When: Wednesday, October 21, 2026, at 2 p.m.
- Where: UL Campus, 2815 NW Leadbetter Dr, Camas WA 98607
- Speakers: Girls and parents from Skyview, Battle Ground, and Camas high schools, along with Francis Staudt
- Attending: Senator John Braun, Representative David Stuebe, and Senator Paul Harris
- Purpose: To hear girls’ firsthand experiences and support fairness and opportunity in girls’ sports
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