At just 13 years old, Becky-Pepper Jackson, the passionate runner and athlete, became a symbol of courage for numerous transgender individuals around the world, thanks to the support and lessons of her mother.
It was due to an unfortunate circumstance that took place after a state law banned transgender girls from participating in girls’ sports.
Becky was born and raised in a family of runners, who often found joy in running alongside her mother, Heather Jackson.
“We would run together, just the two of us, and it was our special time,” Heather recalls.
The inspiration from her mother increased Becky’s desire to join her school’s cross-country and track teams.
When the West Virginia legislature passed HB 3292 in 2021, Becky’s dream of participating in girls’ sports was put on hold.
However, she worked hard and didn’t let the law define her future. With numerous supports from family, friends, and individuals from all around the country, her mother filed a lawsuit.
Family Won the Legal Battles, But Some Politicians aren’t Impressed with the decision
Their legal battle gained national attention, highlighting the struggles faced by transgender youth looking for equal opportunities in sports. “I just want to run,” Becky stated.
“I know how hurtful a law like this is to all kids like me who just want to play sports with their classmates, and I’m doing this for them. Trans kids deserve better.”
In April 2024, the U.S Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit suggested the law was unconstitutional and also reportedly violated Title IX protections against school-based discrimination.
In 2025, Becky made history by becoming the first transgender student-athlete to compete in West Virginia State High School championships.
She earned a bronze medal, with a throw of 122 feet, 11 inches, while competing in the Class AAA girls’ discus event.
Despite an excellent achievement for the transgender community, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey has suggested that he wants officials to do better and separate the sports based on their gender. He wrote,
“A boy is currently competing in girls’ sports at the high school state track meet in West Virginia. It’s wrong and unfair. I’m again urging officials to keep separate scores so that the true winners can be awarded once we win in court. “We will not stop fighting to protect girls’ sports.”
Despite receiving a strong comment from some political figures, she holds her ground and remains determined to do her best in the coming days.
She said, “I want to keep going because this is something I love to do, and I’m not just going to give it up.”
