Nations Tobin Sports Center
8831 Railroad Drive
El Paso, TX 79904
Wheels of Change
Protect the Right to Belong
At El Paso Roller Derby, we believe that the values we live by on the track—strength, solidarity, courage, and resilience—must extend into every part of our lives. As a league rooted in inclusion, empowerment, and mutual respect, we refuse to stay silent when basic human rights are under attack.
This page is a space for skaters, fans, and allies to take action and speak out. The open letter below reflects our league’s deep commitment to defending the rights and safety of LGBTQ+ individuals, and advocating for equality, dignity, and freedom from discrimination for all people.
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We are especially concerned by the growing number of laws attempting to ban trans and nonbinary athletes from participating in sports. These policies are cruel, baseless, and harmful. They strip individuals of the right to compete, belong, and thrive—something roller derby has always championed. Our sport is stronger because of its diversity, and we will always fight to protect it.
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Roller derby has long been a sanctuary for the bold, the different, and the resilient. Whether you’re skating hard or raising your voice, we invite you to stand with us in defending the right to live and play as your authentic self.
Speak up. Take action. Roll toward justice.
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Change starts when we speak up—and it grows when we act together. Whether you're a skater, fan, or ally, you can help fight back against discriminatory laws and policies by:
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Contacting Your Representatives
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Urge your local, state, and federal officials to oppose anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, especially laws targeting trans athletes and queer youth.
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Signing and Sharing Petitions
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Support initiatives that demand inclusive, affirming policies. Your signature helps amplify collective resistance.
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Educating Others
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Have conversations. Share facts. Challenge harmful narratives with truth, empathy, and courage.
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Supporting LGBTQ+ Advocacy Groups
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Donate to or volunteer with organizations that are doing the work on the ground to protect civil rights and fight discrimination.
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Creating Safe Spaces
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On and off the track, make space for everyone to show up as their full, authentic selves. Be the reason someone feels safe, seen, and celebrated.​
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Together, we can push back against injustice, uplift our most vulnerable, and build a future rooted in equity, inclusion, and pride.
Dignity. Due Process. Humanity.
El Paso Roller Derby is heartbroken and outraged by the killings connected to ICE enforcement actions, including the death of Renée Nicole Good in Minnesota.
Our league was founded on community, safety, and dignity. We believe no one should fear violence or death at the hands of any agency, and we reject the escalation of force that has harmed families and traumatized communities across our country.
Those in uniform carry immense authority and with that authority must come an even higher standard of restraint, accountability, and respect for human life. When force is used, especially force that results in death, it must be investigated transparently and addressed without excuses.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, El Paso Roller Derby does not support or oppose any political candidate or party. But we do stand firmly for human rights, due process, accountability, and the belief that every person deserves safety and respect, regardless of immigration status.
We stand in solidarity with those who are grieving and with the communities most impacted, including our own border region where immigration enforcement leaves lasting harm.
To our community: you are not alone. We will continue building a stronger, safer El Paso grounded in love, justice, and humanity.
-El Paso Roller Derby
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Knowledge is power. Here are a few know-your-rights resources for anyone who needs them.
https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rights/immigrants-rights
https://www.aclutx.org/know-your-rights/know-your-rights-interacting-law-enforcement-and-immigration-officials/
https://www.informedimmigrant.com/resources/know-your-rights/steps-take-prepare-family/#accordion_heading-Financial-planning-for-legal-expenses