Simone Biles, the four-time Olympic champion, expressed her deep disappointment and sadness after watching a viral video that showed a black girl being passed over for a medal at a gymnastics ceremony. Biles emphasized that racism has no place in any sport and called for greater inclusivity and equality.
The incident took place at a Gymnastics event in Dublin in March 2022, but the video recently resurfaced, gaining millions of views and sparking widespread criticism on social media. Biles, upon seeing the video, shared that it broke her heart to witness such blatant discrimination.
Gymnastics Ireland responded to the incident, stating that they received a complaint from the girl’s parents regarding racist behavior. The organization conducted an independent investigation, which led to a resolution agreed upon by both parties in August 2023.
During the investigation, the official involved expressed deep regret and described their actions as an honest error. They issued a written apology, and the girl did eventually receive her medal after the ceremony. However, the girl’s mother, as reported by the Irish Independent, believes that Gymnastics Ireland has failed to publicly apologize. As a result, she has taken the matter to the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation in Switzerland.
In her interview with the newspaper, the girl’s mother expressed her family’s hurt and disappointment, explaining that they often feel like the only black family at gymnastics events. The widespread attention the video has garnered has made it clear to them that people from all over the world recognize the injustice that occurred. Yet, Gymnastics Ireland has not taken responsibility or offered an apology.
The girl’s mother pleaded for Gymnastics Ireland to acknowledge their mistake and apologize, expressing her hope for a more inclusive and equal environment in the sport.
