Simone Biles: Standing Up Against Racism and Disrespect

Simone Biles, a name synonymous with gymnastics excellence, has long been celebrated for her athletic prowess and groundbreaking achievements. However, her influence extends beyond the gym floor. Biles has also become a prominent figure in the fight against disrespect and racism, consistently using her platform to address and challenge injustices. This article highlights five significant moments when Biles took a stand against various forms of disrespect, showcasing her resilience and commitment to fairness.

1. The Feud with Former Teammate Mila Skinner

During the Paris Olympics, a public feud emerged between Simone Biles and her former teammate Mila Skinner. The controversy began when Skinner criticized the current US gymnastics team in a YouTube video, questioning their talent and work ethic. Biles, known for her remarkable achievements, responded indirectly by celebrating the team’s gold medal win on Instagram. Her caption seemed to mock Skinner’s comments about a lack of talent and laziness among the Olympic champions.

Skinner later attempted to clarify her statement, insisting she did not intend to offend. However, the tension escalated when she blocked Biles on social media. The conflict highlighted the solidarity within the gymnastics community, with Biles and her teammates, including Jordan Chiles and Sunisa Lee, using the controversy as motivation. The incident garnered significant public and media attention, with commentators like Ali Raisman and Kathy Johnson Clark condemning Skinner’s remarks. The exchange demonstrated Biles’s strength and unity with her fellow gymnasts, turning negative comments into a source of empowerment and motivation.

2. Confronting Racism at an Award Ceremony

In 2023, Simone Biles addressed a distressing incident of racism at a gymnastics award ceremony in Dublin, Ireland. During the event, a young Black gymnast was overlooked while other competitors received their medals. The video of this exclusion went viral, sparking global outrage. Biles condemned the act of racism and expressed her heartbreak over the incident.

Biles took personal action by sending a video message to the young gymnast, offering support and emphasizing that there is no place for racism in sports or anywhere else. Her gesture was widely celebrated, with many calling her an “internet big sister” for comforting the affected child. The video, which garnered over 51 million views on X (formerly Twitter), showcased Biles’s commitment to fairness and equality, reinforcing her role as a compassionate advocate against racism.

Simone Biles and NFL player Jonathan Owens made headlines in August 2023 when Owens revealed on the Pivot Podcast that he did not know who Biles was when they first met on the dating app Raya. This comment sparked a backlash on social media, with many criticizing Owens and suggesting Biles should end the relationship.

Biles, however, stood firmly by her husband. In an interview on the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, she clarified that it was not Owens’s comments that hurt her, but rather the intense negative reaction on social media. Biles explained that she was present when Owens made the comments and did not think much of them at the time. The public’s response, however, caused her emotional distress.

Despite the backlash, Biles emphasized Owens’s respect for her and their strong relationship. Their bond was reinforced by Owens’s support for Biles’s career, including attending her performances and negotiating time off from the NFL to watch her compete. Biles’s defense of Owens highlighted their mutual dedication and respect, turning a moment of controversy into a testament to their strong partnership.

4. Responding to Criticism of Her Hair

Simone Biles has faced criticism about her appearance, particularly regarding her hair. Despite her remarkable achievements, some individuals have focused on her appearance rather than her accomplishments. One notable instance occurred when Biles was celebrated as an honorary Texans cheerleader. While many fans praised her achievement, others criticized her hair.

Biles responded on Twitter to a comment suggesting she needed “some Black friends” to help with her hair. Her reply questioned whether everyone looks perfect all the time, defending herself against the superficial criticism. After her wedding to Jonathan Owens, trolls targeted her hair once again, prompting Biles to highlight the practical challenges of maintaining perfect hair in Houston’s heat.

Biles’s response to these criticisms demonstrated her resilience and commitment to focusing on her achievements rather than her appearance. Her handling of such negativity underscores her strength and determination to remain true to herself.

5. Testifying Against Larry Nassar

Perhaps one of Biles’s most significant acts of standing up against injustice was her testimony against Larry Nassar, the former USA Gymnastics team doctor convicted of abusing over 15 female gymnasts. In 2021, Biles, along with fellow gymnasts Michaela Maroney, Aly Raisman, and Maggie Nichols, recounted their trauma and condemned the institutions that failed to protect them.

Biles’s testimony was a crucial moment in holding accountable those responsible for allowing Nassar’s abuse to continue unchecked for years. She expressed her frustration and anger, stating, “We have been failed, and we deserve answers.” Biles’s bravery in testifying while continuing to train for gymnastics at the highest level was remarkable, underscoring the immense emotional toll the ordeal had on her.

Her testimony not only highlighted systemic failures within USA Gymnastics, the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), and the FBI but also sent a powerful message to perpetrators of abuse worldwide. Biles’s courage in confronting these issues showcased her commitment to justice and her determination to ensure that such abuses are addressed and prevented.

Conclusion

Simone Biles’s responses to critics and her stand against racism and injustice have cemented her status as a role model beyond her athletic achievements. Whether confronting personal attacks, defending her loved ones, addressing racism, or challenging systemic failures, Biles has shown that her strength extends far beyond the gym. Her actions reflect a deep commitment to fairness, equality, and support for others, making her a powerful advocate for change and an inspiring figure for people everywhere.

Simone Biles’s story is a testament to the importance of standing up against disrespect and injustice. Her ability to handle criticism, support others, and confront systemic issues with courage and grace makes her not only a remarkable gymnast but also a beacon of strength and resilience.