This passing Sunday was not your typical Sunday afternoon. Little did you know (or you knew) UCLA’s Gymnastic team was competing against the reigning champion, University of Oklahoma, at Pauley Pavilion. I’ve only seen gymnastic matches on T.V. during the Olympics so this was my first time watching this glamourous sport live. If you like immense amounts of sass from amazing talented human beings then I recommend you go once in your life. I’m honestly hooked. Though my blood normally runs blue and gold, I cheered for both teams and my blood ran teal because I stand in solidarity with our USA gymnasts.

The battle against Larry Nassar finally ended. Sentenced to 175 years in jail, that man will never again see the light of day and he will no longer be harming anyone else. UCLA and OU came together at the end of an incredible and close match to show their support and appreciation to the survivors. A sentimental video made by UCLA Gymnastics team was dedicated to them. “Together we rise,” said repeatedly by numerous gymnasts stands true as we see justice unravel before us.

This incident proves that anyone from anywhere can face abuse. Even the strongest (literally strongest) people in the world (OLYMPIANS) can be victims of abuse, but that doesn’t mean any of this is f***king okay. It takes a lot of courage for these women to rise up, face their abuser, and come together to fight a battle that is beneficial for all. If I took anything away from the match on Sunday is that we can do anything if we put aside our differences and worked together for a better cause.

2017 and early 2018 has been all about the #metoo and Time’s up movement because it is. As multiple women in Hollywood are currently speaking up, these amazing athletes are as well. First let me just say, I APPRECIATE YOU, I STAND BY YOU, and THANK YOU for your courage. As competitive as women can be, I think that every day we’re learning to break gender norms, shatter barriers, and really come together to support each other. Therefore we shall continue to stick together and rise as one.