Actor Laverne Cox addressed ongoing debates over policies governing participation in women’s sports during a red carpet interview for the upcoming film Animal Farm, where he described recent legislative efforts as part of a broader pattern of treatment toward transgender-identifying individuals.

Cox, known for his work in television and film, made the remarks while discussing policies that restrict biological males from competing in women’s sports.

He framed his comments around the concept of dehumanization, stating that such policies are not solely about athletics.

“At the heart of every genocide is dehumanization [and] when we stop seeing our fellow citizens as human, then we can commit violence against them with impunity, take away their rights,” Cox said.

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“I think what we’ve seen over the past six years with trans people is a really good example of that.”

He continued by arguing that the policy debate extends beyond sports.

“It’s clear that it’s never been about sports. It’s never about protecting women or children. If they wanted to protect women and children, they would indict the people in the Epstein files,” Cox said.

Cox further described what he sees as the motivation behind the legislation.

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“So that was all a pretext to scapegoat trans people, to dehumanize us and put us in an excluded category so that they can take away our rights,” he said.

“Legislate us out of existence, we’re seeing that happen.”

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His comments come as federal policy on the issue has shifted under President Donald Trump.

During his second administration, Trump has taken steps aimed at restricting participation in women’s sports based on biological sex.

Shortly after taking office, he signed an executive order addressing the issue.

"We will not allow men to beat up, injure, and cheat our women and our girls. From now on, women's sports will be only for women," Trump said at the time of signing the order.

"With this executive order, the war on women's sports is over."

The policy change has been part of a broader national debate involving lawmakers, advocacy groups, and athletic organizations.

Supporters of the restrictions have argued they are intended to ensure fairness and safety in women’s sports, while critics have raised concerns about discrimination and inclusion.

Public opinion on the issue has been measured in recent polling.

According to a Gallup poll conducted last year, 69 percent of U.S. adults said transgender-identifying athletes should compete on sports teams that align with their biological sex.

The same poll found that 66 percent of Americans believe biological sex, rather than gender identity, should be listed on government documents such as passports and driver’s licenses.

The discussion surrounding sports participation policies has also extended to state legislatures, school systems, and athletic governing bodies, with varying approaches taken across the country.

Some states have enacted laws similar to the federal policy, while others have maintained different standards or are still considering legislation.