The New York Liberty basketball team displayed three supportive messages for transgender fans during halftime in a game on Saturday. This came just a day after they refunded a woman for a message deemed inappropriate. The game, which ended with Liberty’s 109-102 win over the Indiana Fever, featured encouraging messages for the transgender community displayed on the scoreboard.
Outside the Barclays Center, several transgender activists gathered to protest against the ninth Sophie Cunningham rally of the season. They declined interviews with Fox News Digital, responding with flags, signs, and chants of “trans lives matter.” A photographer from the outlet reported that his glasses were taken during the encounter.
During halftime, the Liberty showcased the following messages aimed at transgender fans:
- “Big welcome to the NY Liberty transgender fan community! So excited to be here with you all!”
- “Welcome Trans Liberty fans! You are loved and you belong!”
- “Hey trans fans! Glad you’re here! Go Liberty!”
The inclusion of these messages occurred during the same program where Julie Potter, a lesbian hip-hop artist, planned a message of her own. Potter had paid $2,000 for 25 tickets and an additional $100 for a custom scoreboard message, originally thanking Jennifer Sey of XX-XY Athletics. The Liberty altered her message, leading to Potter’s demand for a refund, which she received.
The Liberty stated that their scoreboard message criteria are based on positive, celebratory content. Messages that don’t align are considered ineligible. The team hasn’t clarified why Potter’s original wording was rejected.
Sophie’s events typically attract crowds. This time, it gathered the largest pro-trans counter-protesters to date. The activists used large flags, signs, and bubble blowers during their demonstration. Police escorted a Fox News Digital reporter from the area citing safety reasons.
An ambassador for the protesters mentioned that the group had agreed not to partake in media interviews. Fox News Digital has reached out for further comments regarding the incidents and potential apologies.
Sophie Cunningham addressed the situation, expressing that varied rallies demonstrate the impact of their platform. She emphasized providing a safe environment for both Liberty and Indiana fans attending the games. Cunningham viewed the attention on her comments as positive, noting it brought new fans and interest to the games.
Jackson Thompson, the reporter for Fox News Digital, continues to cover the intersection of sports and cultural issues, with his work cited in federal policy actions and major media publications.