Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
12-2019
Course Name
FY103.2 Backwards and in Heels: Gender Inequity
Faculty
Dr. Jeanne Buckley
Department
First Year Seminar, Arcadia University Undergraduate Curriculum
Abstract
This paper explores how female gymnasts, particularly Aly Raisman, have sparked the gymnastics world’s involvement in the #MeToo movement. It briefly touches on Raisman’s beginnings with gymnastics and how she became an elite U.S. gymnast but promptly dives into her #MeToo story, focusing on her traumatic experiences with Olympic doctor Larry Nassar. Furthermore, her story brings to light how she and other survivors of sexual assault have faced credibility discounting, also known as gaslighting, for sharing their truth. By sharing parts of Aly Raisman and other survivors’ testimonies, this paper highlights not only the trauma and pain they endured while facing their abuser in court, but also the unity and community they found during the process. Most importantly, Aly Raisman’s ongoing fight for change and awareness regarding sexual abuse within workplaces and the sports world has sparked other survivors to find their courage to speak out as well.
Recommended Citation
Malinsky, Jessica, "Toxic Gymnastics Culture’s Impact On the #MeToo Movement: Sexual Abuse Survivor Aly Raisman’s Trauma Fosters Fight for Change" (2019). Faculty Curated Undergraduate Works. 62.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/undergrad_works/62
Included in
Child Psychology Commons, Criminology and Criminal Justice Commons, Experimental Analysis of Behavior Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, Gender and Sexuality Commons, Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Ethnicity in Communication Commons, Public Relations and Advertising Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons, Social Media Commons, Sociology of Culture Commons