A Message from Your DEI Chair, Sam Hull To the IGBO Membership

Dear IGBO Members,

I want to take a moment to reflect on the recent meetings held during the 2025 IGBO Annual in Las Vegas with USBC Executive Director Chad Murphy and Deputy Director Jason Overstreet. These conversations were pivotal, and I’d like to share key takeaways and next steps.

🗣️ Meeting Highlights

1. Closed Session with Trans Women and USBC Leadership This intimate meeting included trans women, cisgender women, myself, and the USBC representatives. The dialogue was candid and emotionally charged. Chad and Jason listened attentively but maintained their stance, citing adherence to federal mandates and legal counsel. They expressed concern about becoming a political target and were transparent about their limitations. While their honesty was appreciated, many attendees felt their responses lacked empathy and accountability. I witnessed powerful, irrefutable testimony from our trans sisters that deserved more time and deeper engagement.

2. Open Session with IGBO Members In the larger forum, questions were direct and, at times, confrontational. Chad and Jason responded professionally, reiterating three core points:

• USBC is not a political entity.
• They are following legal guidance in response to federal directives.
• They do not wish to be targeted by the current administration.

They acknowledged the harm done to the 56 trans women who participated in their certification program and clarified that trans men are not currently affected by these policies. Importantly, they emphasized that the ultimate resolution will come through the courts—a process that will take years.

3. Post-Meeting Governance Discussion After Chad and Jason departed, IGBO members convened to discuss future governance. A committee was formed to explore the feasibility and cost of self-governance. This is a long-term endeavor, but a necessary one.

💬 Personal Reflections

I’ve worked with Jason Overstreet for three years. The DEI pages on Bowl.com remain active, and every change I’ve proposed has been implemented. Prior to this administration, there were discussions about allowing trans women to compete in women’s scratch events—something they’ve never been permitted to do. While USBC’s current stance is disappointing, I do not believe Chad or Jason are enemies of IGBO. They are navigating a complex and politically charged landscape, and we must continue to hold them accountable while recognizing their efforts to engage.

📌 What You Need to Know

Trans Women Are NOT Banned from All USBC Events. Here’s a summary of the current policy:

Leagues and tournaments can adopt inclusive language such as:

“The women’s competition category for this league/tournament is open to transgender-females.” Be sure to mark “mixed” on the USBC certification form.

🛠️ Action Steps for IGBO

• Adopt the inclusive rule in all IGBO leagues and tournaments—even if not required.
• Educate allies and encourage other leagues to follow suit.
• Outreach to trans bowlers—invite, support, and listen to their needs.
• Maintain our presence within USBC—do not withdraw certifications or participation.
• Demand representation on the USBC Board equal to TNBA.
• Expand our visibility at USBC Nationals and advocate for safe host cities.
• Strengthen the USBC Affinity Partnership using our values and expertise.
• Encourage participation in local/state USBC Boards and the National Convention.

💪 Final Thoughts

To those feeling disheartened: your presence matters. Walking away cedes ground to those who seek to silence us. We must remain visible, vocal, and united. If you’re uncomfortable with confrontation, that’s okay—others will lead, but we need your support.

Some of you have offered legal and financial resources. Now is the time to activate those. The DEI Committee Financial Account is ready. Our next step is pursuing a judicial injunction against the current USBC rule. Who’s ready to stand with us?

In solidarity, Sam Hull IGBO DEI Chair

diversity@igbo.org