Former collegiate swimmer and conservative commentator Riley Gaines delivered a speech criticizing gender ideology during the AmericaFest conference held this weekend in Phoenix, Arizona. The event, organized by Turning Point USA, drew thousands of attendees from across the country and featured a lineup of prominent conservative speakers.
AmericaFest is an annual gathering that focuses on conservative politics, culture, and activism. Gaines, who has become a nationally recognized figure in debates over transgender inclusion in sports, received a standing ovation as she took the stage.
Addressing the audience’s response, Gaines remarked, “You’re giving a standing ovation to a girl for merely saying that there are two sexes.” The comment was met with applause from attendees.
During her remarks, Gaines described gender ideology as harmful and deceptive. “Gender ideology is an evil lie from the pit of hell, that is built on deception,” she said. She continued by arguing that it encourages people to believe they were born incorrectly. “It is built on discouragement, built on destruction. It tells people that they’re correct to feel as if they’re born wrong, that our Creator made a mistake in creating them. A horrible message,” Gaines said.
Gaines also referenced suicide rates among transgender individuals, framing the issue through a religious and ideological lens. “I say this with a saddened heart. It is tragic that the suicide rate amongst this community is so high, but it’s no surprise when we’re telling people they’re correct to feel as if they’re born wrong,” she said. “We should be telling people that they’re born inherently, uniquely in God’s perfect image.”
In addition to criticizing gender ideology, Gaines spoke broadly about modern social movements, including feminism and sexual liberation. She claimed these movements have shifted away from their original goals and now promote messages she believes are damaging to society.
Gaines first gained national attention after competing for the University of Kentucky swim team and later becoming outspoken against the participation of transgender women in women’s sports. Since then, she has built a media presence as a commentator and podcast host, frequently appearing at conservative events and on right-leaning media platforms.
Her comments have drawn both strong support and sharp criticism. Supporters argue Gaines is raising concerns about fairness, biology, and women’s rights in athletics. Critics, including LGBTQ advocates and transgender rights organizations, say her rhetoric contributes to stigma and reinforces misinformation about transgender people.
The speech comes amid ongoing national debates and legislative efforts related to gender identity. Several states have introduced or passed laws that restrict transgender participation in sports or seek to define sex in law based solely on biology. These efforts have intensified public discussion around civil rights, inclusion, and the role of government in regulating gender identity.
As debates over transgender rights continue across the country, Gaines remains a prominent figure within conservative circles, using high profile platforms such as AmericaFest to amplify her views on gender ideology and related cultural issues.
