OSHKOSH, Wis–The Oshkosh Area Community Foundation issues a statement on the controversy surrounding the selection of a speaker for this year’s Women’s Fund “Power of the Purse” event. Professional surfer Bethany Hamilton is scheduled to speak in Oshkosh on May 9th.
That announcement earlier this month led to backlash from the L-G-B-T-Q community, as Hamilton has expressed opposition to women competing against transgender athletes in the World Surf League. In a statement issued this week by the Foundation, the group says that Hamilton will speak as scheduled:
“Over the years, the Women’s Fund Power of the Purse event has hosted a wide range of powerful speakers from all backgrounds whose diverse experiences and perspectives have imparted impactful lessons of hope, and perseverance—and Bethany Hamilton is no different. Both a world-renowned athlete and survivor, Ms. Hamilton will share her own story with our community of overcoming obstacles, facing fears and triumphing as an individual. Although her scheduled appearance has been met with some criticism due to her reported personal views on transgender athletes – a stance unknown to us at the time nor the focus of her appearance – we still very much believe her inspirational message of determination and resilience can transcend our differences.”
