A planned event in Santa Fe celebrating Title IX and girls’ sports faced an unexpected setback when the venue canceled just a day before it was set to take place. The Santa Fe Farmers’ Market Institute accused the organizers, the Independent Women’s Forum, of misrepresenting the event as a non-political celebration, claiming it was actually a partisan political gathering.
The event, titled “Her Game. Her Legacy,” was scheduled for Monday, which marks the 53rd anniversary of Title IX, the law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in schools. The Farmers’ Market Institute stated on Facebook that the description of the event as a celebration for athletes and families was misleading. They expressed concern over the event’s political nature and stated they could not meet the security requirements that the organizers had not disclosed.
Independent Women’s Forum leaders said they were blindsided by the cancellation, learning about it through the venue’s social media post. They expressed their intention to file a lawsuit against the venue, claiming a breach of contract and a violation of their First Amendment rights. Beth Parlato, a legal advisor for the group, emphasized that the event was meant to be non-partisan and focused on celebrating female athletes.
Despite the cancellation, the event found a new home at the Inn and Spa at Loretto, thanks to the general manager of the hotel, who offered assistance. The event is still set to start at 1 PM and will feature speakers including Education Secretary Linda McMahon, parents, and athletes advocating for girls’ sports.
Victory Coley, the group’s vice president of communications, highlighted the importance of the event for young girls and female athletes. She noted that the cancellation was not just about the event itself but about the broader implications for women’s sports.
The gathering will include family-friendly activities such as games, music, and food, along with a pink carpet for athletes to walk down. The event also kicks off a bus tour across New Mexico, aimed at celebrating women’s sports in all 33 counties.
The Farmers’ Market Institute, which emphasizes values like equity and kindness, now faces criticism for its decision to cancel the event. The situation has sparked a debate about free speech and the rights of organizations to host events that may be seen as politically charged.