Family of Girl Snubbed at Medal Ceremony Calls for Public Apology from Gymnastics Ireland

In a distressing incident that unfolded at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin in March 2022, a young black girl was reportedly subjected to racial discrimination when she was intentionally excluded from a medal presentation by a Gymnastics Ireland official. The video of this incident recently went viral online, sparking outrage and garnering support from international gymnastics superstar Simone Biles.

The heart-wrenching video captured the young girl’s bewildered and embarrassed reaction as all the participating gymnasts received medals except her. The family, who initially chose not to seek media coverage last year, has now come forward, demanding a public apology from Gymnastics Ireland for their daughter’s mistreatment, which they believe was racially motivated.

Simone Biles, known for her incredible achievements in gymnastics, expressed her dismay over the incident, stating that it “broke her heart” in a message on social media. She reached out to the young girl with a personal video message of support, highlighting that she deserved a medal just like the other participants and that she had the support of many in the gymnastics community.

Gymnastics Ireland responded by claiming that the issue had been resolved through a mediation process that concluded in August. However, the girl’s mother disagreed, emphasizing that Gymnastics Ireland had not issued a sincere public apology for what transpired. Instead, they received a one-line written apology addressed vaguely “to whom it concerns.” Unsatisfied with this response, they have taken the matter to the Gymnastics Ethics Foundation in Switzerland.

The mother has also raised concerns about potential racist abuse targeting their family, especially after the video’s viral spread. She has requested Gymnastics Ireland’s assistance in having social media platforms remove the video. The family’s plea for acknowledgment and apology has garnered support from both local and international communities.

Gymnastics Ireland maintains that the official responsible for the incident has not been a member since August 2022, and they argue that a mediated resolution was reached. However, the family and their supporters insist that a public apology is necessary to address the emotional toll this incident has taken on the young girl and her family.

As this story continues to draw attention and public outcry, it highlights the importance of addressing racial discrimination in sports and the responsibility of sports organizations to ensure fair treatment and inclusivity for all athletes, regardless of their background.