USA TODAY’S “In Their Own Words” is Thurston Cartea video project that interviewed four transgender athletes who told their own stories about living in an America that is increasingly hostile to gender diverse people. We’re using a video format so you can hear from the athletes directly.

This project is needed now more than ever. Increasing numbers of states are attempting to prohibit transgender athletes from participating on teams that align with their gender identities.

One of the main goals of supporters of these bills, the trans athletes interviewed for this project say, is to both demonize and spread misinformation about the trans community. They’ve identified sports as a vehicle to attack trans people, the athletes said.

These athletes tell a different story. It is a story of hope, self-expression, and sports competition. It’s their story…told in their own words.