Simone Biles received so much criticism during her Gold Medal Olympic run that you’d have thought she was talking about Black Twitter’s momma or something. Her hair, her demeanor and technique were lambasted on national television, social media and anywhere an opinion formed regarding the Olympic gymnastics team.
To The Shadow League, Simone was a hero to be celebrated and uplifted. Yet, other than us, The Root and The Grio, there was very little support for this sister. Now 20 years old, Biles has come out with new allegations against convicted sex offender and former USA team doctor Larry Nassar. Indeed, she now needs support more than ever.
“I, too, am one of the many survivors that was sexually abused by Larry Nassar,” she said Monday afternoon in a Twitter post with the hashtag #MeToo.
“There are many reasons that I have been reluctant to share my story, but I know now that it is not my fault.”
Simone Biles on Twitter
Feelings… #MeToo
The #MeToo movement is not only meant to bring light to those who serially abuse, but those institutions that enable this behavior. Named as being complicit by several victims, USA Gymnastics expressed their support for Biles.
“USA Gymnastics is absolutely heartbroken, sorry and angry that Simone Biles or any of our athletes have been harmed by the horrific acts of Larry Nassar,” said USA Gymnastics. “We are our athletes’ advocates. USA Gymnastics will continue to listen to our athletes and our members in our efforts of creating a culture of empowerment with a relentless focus on athlete safety every single day.”
Simone Biles – Floor Exercise – 2016 P&G Gymnastics Championships – Sr. Women Day 2
Score: 16.050 (6.9, 9.150) June 26, 2016 – Chaifetz Arena – St. Louis, Mo. Hit that LIKE button to show your support for USA Gymnastics!
However, despite their statement, Biles came for them as well.
“For far too long I’ve asked myself ‘Was I too naive? Was it my fault?’ I now know the answer to those questions. No. No. It was not my fault. No, I will not and should not carry the guilt that belongs to Larry Nassar, USAG, and others.”
