State Representative Eric Weaknecht (R-Berks) has announced the launch of the “Defending Our Daughters” campaign, which invites Pennsylvanians to support female athletes across the Commonwealth. The campaign encourages people to sign the “I Believe” promise, an initiative meant to emphasize girls’ rights to safe and fair athletic opportunities, including equal competition, scholarship eligibility, and private locker room spaces.
The pledge is available online at defendingdaughters.com and in hard copy at Rep. Weaknecht’s office located at Reading Regional Airport. The collected signatures will be shared with Governor Josh Shapiro and legislative leaders as a call for action on this issue during the current legislative session.
Rep. Weaknecht explained his motivation for supporting this campaign by stating: “As a father to a daughter and an uncle to many nieces who were dedicated athletes, I have seen firsthand the incredible hard work, discipline and passion these young women pour into their sports. To me, the reason we need to protect female sports categories is simple: it’s about fairness and competitive integrity.
My priority will always be to support and advocate for the girls in my life, ensuring they have a safe and fair environment where their hard work is respected and their achievements are possible.”
In recent months, House Democrats have not brought three bills related to women’s sports protections up for votes. Senate Bill 9 passed in the Senate with bipartisan support in May but was moved between committees in the House—from Education to Health, then Judiciary—avoiding a discharge resolution that would require a vote. Two similar House Bills (158 and 1849) followed comparable paths through committee referrals.
For more information or copies of the pledge form, individuals can contact Rep. Weaknecht’s office or visit his official website.
