The 2016 Olympics are fully under way in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. There have been many exciting moments, especially for the athletes from the United States. From watching Michael Phelps win his 22nd Olympic Gold Medal or Simone Biles slay every gymnastic element, it has been exciting so far to say the least! One thing about this Olympic Games that is different from others for a lot of viewers are the sexist remarks made by the commentators or in the media in general. Sexism has been an ongoing problem in the media, especially when it comes to reporting on sports. There were many instances where Olympic commentators used sexist remarks about the events, but here are just a few examples:
The Chicago Tribune labeling Olympic Champion Corey Cogdell as the "Wife of a Bears' Lineman" instead of as the Olympic Champion she is.
The fixation by the commentators on Dana Vollmer having a baby over a year ago and now competing in the Olympics, specifically saying "Had a baby 16 months ago. But she hasn't lost her edge."
Comparing Simone Biles' dismount from the uneven bars to that of the men saying "I think she might even go higher than some of the men."
Although these are just a few examples of the sexism displayed in this Olympic games, it goes to show the severity of the issue in the media today. Women have been facing prejudice for a long time in this world and even still deal with it today. It is not something that is new, but that does not mean it is something that is OK. For far too long, women have been thought of in a different light than men, even still being paid less for doing the same work. This public display of sexism just brings attention to a topic often swept under the rug.
These comments bring up the greater issue of sexism in our culture. Although it may not seem like a trivial topic of discussion, it is important for shaping our future. If we are teaching the upcoming generations notions of not treating everyone equally no matter our differences. We should be aiming to have a world of acceptance and for an Olympic athlete not just to be known as a "Lineman's wife," but for her incredible accomplishment of winning an Olympic gold medal.
Beyonce once said, "We need to reshape our own perception of how we view ourselves. We have to step up as women and take the lead." From all of these recent remarks about women in the Olympics, it goes to show that major accomplishments made by women should not be given less recognition because it was done by a woman. Women can do anything and should not be thought of as any less or questioned for their actions.
In a recent interview with high-scoring American gymnast Simone Biles, she said "I'm not the next Usain Bolt or Michael Phelps. I'm the first Simone Biles." We should all take the lead to make our world one where women and men are given the same recognition for our accomplishments. A place of tolerance, acceptance and fairness should be everyone's goal.
