A Message from Jessica Weissbuch, Executive Director of Brave Trails
Happy New Year, Brave Trails family. I hope this season finds you grounded, hopeful, and surrounded by community.
Today, Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear oral arguments in Little v. Hecox (Idaho) and West Virginia v. B.P.J. These cases center on whether states can enforce bans that prevent transgender girls from participating in girls’ school sports teams.
I wanted to reach out personally because I know how deeply our community cares about trans youth, and because many of you appreciate being kept informed when decisions at the national level could shape young people’s everyday lives.
What this means for Brave Trails:
For us, this conversation isn’t only about policy. It’s about people, our young people. 65% of our campers identify as trans or nonbinary, and Brave Trails exists so they can experience what every young person deserves: safety, belonging, and the freedom to grow into themselves.
I have seen firsthand how the outdoors builds confidence that lasts. The freedom to move, to run, to climb, to play, and to take up space can be life-giving. Whether it’s a spontaneous game in a dusty field or a hike with friends who “get it,” these embodied experiences teach something deep: My body is capable. My joy is real. I belong.
Why sports and play matter:
Sports and outdoor play are not “extra.” They are pathways to self-discovery, teamwork, resilience, and leadership. When trans youth are excluded, it’s not just exclusion from a game. It’s a denial of one of the places young people learn courage, connection, and pride.
Our commitment:
Brave Trails will continue to stand firmly on the side of inclusion. Our camps, programs, and year-round support networks exist so that every LGBTQ+ young person can feel safe, affirmed, and free to thrive, on the field, on the trail, and in the world.
As we follow these cases in the months ahead, I promise to keep you informed and engaged. Thank you for being the kind of community that makes belonging possible.
With pride and resolve,
