The most decorated gymnast of all time, Simone Biles, uses her fame to put others in the spotlight. On the floor, normally her strongest event, she was surpassed at these Olympic Games by Brazilian Rebeca Andrade.
Biles received a silver medal, and her teammate Jordan Chiles won bronze. During the medal ceremony, they made it a celebration together by bowing together for the gold medalist Andrade.
Why did Biles do this, journalists wondered? Biles showed herself to be a true ally. She used her fame and privileges to honor and put someone else in the spotlight. She wanted to celebrate an all-Black podium but, above all, to recognize Andrade’s athletic achievements because she is an outstanding athlete.
Thanks to Biles’ fame, now even those unfamiliar with the sport know more about the exceptional performances of Chiles and Andrade.
What more can I/you do as an ally? Also at work?
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