Today, Independent Women hosted an event in Santa Fe, New Mexico, to mark the 53rd anniversary of Title IX. The gathering, named “Her Game. Her Legacy.”, took place at the Inn and Spa at Loretto and was part of National Women’s Sports Week celebrations. The event aimed to honor female athletes across generations and highlight the importance of protections for women’s sports.
Prominent figures who spoke at the event included U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon, former New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez, Payton McNabb, Linnea Saltz, Coach Kim Russell, Annemarie Wiley, and other local advocates.
The celebration also launched a statewide bus tour covering all 33 counties in New Mexico. This tour is intended to support young female athletes and advocate for equal opportunities in women’s sports throughout the state.
A last-minute change of venue occurred when Santa Fe Farmer’s Market Institute breached a contract with Independent Women. Despite this setback, the Inn and Spa at Loretto accommodated the event without hindrance.
Linda McMahon stated: “Today, we’re honoring the 53rd anniversary of Title IX and the incredible resilience of female athletes who are standing up and pushing back against the harms of gender ideology.” She emphasized that efforts continue under her administration to protect these rights.
Susana Martinez remarked: “As the first Hispanic female governor, it brings me so much joy to see female athletes achieving their dreams. Title IX opened doors for generations of women.”
Payton McNabb expressed gratitude for her opportunities due to Title IX: “I’m proud to celebrate the women who came before me and fought for fairness in sports.”
Linnea Saltz shared her experiences: “To me Title IX means opportunity, equality, and empowerment.”
Coach Kim Russell highlighted ongoing challenges: “Boys and men are taking away more and more opportunities from women in sports every year.”
Annemarie Wiley stressed scientific perspectives on competition: “Fairness isn’t hate… acknowledging that biological sex matters in competition isn’t political-It’s science.”
The event featured various activities celebrating women’s sports achievements while underscoring Title IX’s impact over five decades.
