USA Gymnastics allows protests from athletes as part of new bill of rights
Press Release
14th December 2020,
USA Gymnastics has announced an Athlete Bill of Rights and a protest policy for national team members which will allow them to protest without punishment.
The Athlete Bill of Rights covers eight points and was developed as a collaborative effort between USA Gymnastics and members of the organisations Athlete’s Council in order to ensure that athletes effectively had their opinion considered. The Bill covers a range of points including the right to participate in Gymnastics, be treated with dignity and respect and to have their health and safety protected.
Point 7 of the Bill allows athletes to voice their opinion that affects the gymnastics community without being punished. USA Gymnastics protest policy reinforces point 7 as it reads “In a number of forums (e.g., on social media, at press conferences, etc.), you also have a platform to use your voice in other ways – whether that is to inspire the next generation of gymnasts, provide feedback on your experiences, share personal anecdotes, or advocate for causes you believe in. Your choice to do so – including through peaceful protest at a USA Gymnastics’ event – will not impact selections, team participation, or results, to the extent it is under USA Gymnastics’ control (i.e., the Olympic Games are not under USAG’s control), so long as you are complying with the USA Gymnastics’ policies, including the Code of Ethical Conduct.”
The original article can be found here.
