Let’s go Simone and Team USA!

Have you been watching the Olympics? We have been gushing over our fellow Texan, Simone Biles, and the Women’s Gymnastics team! From dominating the world stage to inspiring millions with their resilience and grace, Team USA are true champions in every sense of the word!

Simone Biles isn’t just a gymnastics legend; she’s a beacon of resilience and strength.

Seeing Simone compete is truly amazing; she takes on any challenge with courage and grace both on and off the mat. Although we are awestruck by Simone’s brilliance and talent in the Olympics, we are even more inspired by the way she bravely advocates for herself and other survivors.

In 2016, Simone and hundreds of other gymnasts came forward about the sexual violence they endured as children by gymnastics programs across the United States. Until that point, the abusers never faced any repercussions for their violence. In fact, many institutions meant to protect gymnasts were aware of the abuse happening but did nothing to stop it.

In 2021, Simone and several of her former teammates testified before Congress about the abuse they endured and how the systems meant to protect gymnasts enabled abusers.

Survivors of abuse face overwhelming obstacles when fighting for justice and upholding their dignity. Standing up for yourself and speaking out about the injustices you’ve endured is terrifying and retraumatizing, and sometimes it’s easier to stay quiet. It shouldn’t have to be that way. Survivors shouldn’t have to fight so hard for justice or accountability.

The long, tiring journey to healing and justice hasn’t deterred Simone. She knew that systems needed to be held accountable to prevent abuse from happening again. She bravely stood up to those systems and valiantly demanded change.

Simone: thank you for being a powerful voice for survivors and for your steadfast determination to hold systems accountable. Thank you for leading by example and taking a break when you needed it. Survivors bear so much weight on their shoulders and continue to carry trauma. It’s okay to take a break, and it’s okay to prioritize your own mental health and your future over other’s expectations.

Thank you, Simone, for inspiring us all.