On October 23, 2026, a group of approximately 20 activists was removed from a Portland Thorns soccer match held at Providence Park in Portland, Oregon.. The group, which included independent journalist Brandi Kruse, was reportedly wearing "XX-XY" shirts and displaying a "Save Women's Sports" banner when the incident occurred.
The XX-XY shirt controversy at Providence Park
The incident at Providence Park involved allegations of both targeted harassment and heavy-handed security responses. According to the report, the activists were surrounded by an agitated group of trans supporters who allegedly engaged in verbal and physical aggression, including hitting the group with flags and dumping beer on them. The activists were wearing the XX-XY shirts to highlight what they described as the biological reality of physical advantages males have over females in sports.
A three-way dispute between the City, Peregrine Sports, and the Thorns
The management structure of Providence Park has creted a complex web of responsibility regarding the ejection. while the City of Portland owns the stadium, the facility is operated by Peregrine Sports, and the Portland Thorns serve as the primary tenant. Portland officials have issued a statement claiming the city did not approve the specific policies that led to the removal of the supporters.
The Portland Thorns' official X account, however, celebrated their fans following the match and stated they are committed to a safe and inclusive environment.. Despite this, the organization claimed that security and enforcement decisions are managed locally, complicating the effort to identify who is responsible for the specific actions taken against the activists.
Allegations of security overreach and the ripped press pass
Security personnel faced criticism for their handling of the crowd and their interactions with members of the press. Brandi Kruse, speaking with Laura Ingraham on Fox News,stated that she was never provided with an explanation for her removal from the stadium. Kruse noted that even after demanding an explanation, security did not provide one.
Furthermore, the report notes that a journalist covering the game was allegedly assaulted by a mob, during which a security guard reportedly ripped a press pass from his chest. Kruse also raised concerns that security guards were acting with the authority of police officers despite not being law enforcement officials.
Who authorized the ejection of the XX-XY shirt group?
Several critical questions remain regarding the decision-making process during the October 23 match . It is currently unknown whether the Portland Thorns organization or Peregrine Sports issued the direct order to eject the women wearing the XX-XY shirts. Additionally, while the Thorns have sttaed they are reviewing security actions to ensure consistent policy application, they have not yet addressed the specific allegations of physical assault against the activists and the journalist. The lack of a clear explanation from stadium officials leaves the exact cause of the ejection unverified.
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