~ Men Named “Woman of the Year”: A Cultural and Political Examination ~
Men Stealing “Woman of the Year” Awards
In recent years, a number of biological men who identify as women have been awarded the title of “Woman of the Year” by major publications and organizations. These honors, while celebrated by some as inclusive and progressive, have also generated controversy and concern, particularly among those who believe they blur essential distinctions between men and women, and potentially undermine the achievements of biological women.
This article explores the most high-profile cases, including height and weight, which often reflect biological advantages in contexts like sports and public perception.
1. Rachel Levine – USA Today (2022)
Position: U.S. Assistant Secretary for Health
Height: Approximately 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm)
Weight: Estimated 250–270 lbs (113–122 kg)
Background: Levine, a biological male who identifies as a transgender woman, was named one of USA Today’s Women of the Year in 2022.
Controversy: Critics pointed out that recognizing Levine as a woman marginalizes biological women in leadership roles. Physical stature and presence are often relevant in military and healthcare command contexts, intensifying debate.
2. Caitlyn Jenner – Glamour Magazine (2015)
Profession: Former Olympian and television personality
Height: 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm)
Weight: Approximately 210 lbs (95 kg)
Background: Jenner received Glamour’s Woman of the Year honor in 2015 after publicly transitioning.
Controversy: Some called it a media stunt, arguing that male privilege still played a role in Jenner’s acclaim, especially considering his fame as a male Olympic athlete.
3. Laverne Cox – Glamour Magazine Features (2014+)
Profession: Actor and LGBTQ+ activist
Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
Weight: Estimated 170 lbs (77 kg)
Background: Though not a main recipient, Cox has been featured as part of Glamour’s celebrations of women.
Controversy: Cox’s inclusion furthered debates over whether identity or biology should determine eligibility for women’s awards.
4. Lia Thomas – NCAA Nominee (2022)
Profession: Collegiate swimmer
Height: 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm)
Weight: Estimated 180–190 lbs (82–86 kg)
Background: Lia Thomas became the first openly transgender athlete to win an NCAA Division I women’s swimming title. He was also honored by ESPN for his accomplishments against biological woman.
Controversy: Thomas’ large frame and clear physical advantage over biologically female competitors became central in arguments over fairness in women’s sports.
5. Michaela Jaé (MJ) Rodriguez – TIME Magazine (2022)
Profession: Actor and singer
Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
Weight: Approximately 127 lbs (58 kg)
Background: MJ Rodriguez, born Michael Anthony Rodriguez Jr., is a biological male who identifies as transgenderHe gained prominence for his role in the FX series Pose and was named one of TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year in 2022. That same year, Rodriguez was also the first transgender entertainer to receive a Golden Globe and an Emmy nomination for lead actress.
Controversy: Rodriguez’s inclusion in the list sparked discussions about the criteria for such honors and whether gender identity should be the determining factor over biological sex.
6. Dylan Mulvaney
Influencer of the Year-style Hono (2022–2023)
Profession: TikTok personality and transgender activist
Height: 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm)
Weight: Estimated 145–150 lbs (66–68 kg)
Background: While not titled “Woman of the Year” by a formal publication, (he was recognized as “Woman of the Year” by Attitude magazine,) Mulvaney was treated as a symbolic voice of “modern womanhood” in brand partnerships.
Controversy: Critics said Mulvaney’s exaggerated, theatrical portrayal of womanhood was degrading, and biologically-based statistics were often used to illustrate the disconnect between his performance and lived female experience.
It has gotten so ridiculous that in a recent post in a doll collecting blog, a potato with “male bits” was humorously named “Woman of the Year.”
Why Height and Weight Matter in This Discussion
In both competitive sports and general perception, height and weight often reflect biological advantages that men have over women. These factors influence speed, strength, reach, and presence. When men are honored in female categories—whether in athletic, political, or symbolic spaces—these physical realities frequently become part of the public conversation, especially when women are displaced or overshadowed.
Conclusion
The trend of honoring biological men as “Women of the Year” is a defining flashpoint in the modern “gender” debate. Height and weight figures serve to highlight the physical and biological distinctions that many feel are being dismissed in favor of ideology. For critics, they symbolize a loss of fairness, clarity, and respect for womanhood.
Either way, the question persists: Can womanhood be redefined without erasing the very women these awards were created to honor?
From a Biblical perspective, this confusion over “gender identity” and recognition is a direct result of a culture that has rejected God’s design. Scripture clearly teaches that “God created man in His own image… male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:27). God made men and women distinct, with equal value but different roles, and that distinction is not something we are free to redefine.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “God is not the author of confusion” (1 Corinthians 14:33). Yet today’s society is increasingly marked by confusion, where feelings are elevated over facts and identity is seen as something self-determined rather than God-given.
To call a biological man “Woman of the Year” is more than just political correctness—it is rebellion against the created order. It diminishes the real struggles and accomplishments of women, while promoting a worldview rooted not in truth, but in self-idolatry.
Christians are called to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), to uphold God’s design for humanity, and to protect those whose voices are being silenced—including the countless women who no longer feel safe or recognized in this cultural moment. We must pray for wisdom, speak boldly, and continue to stand for the truth that God does not make mistakes.
