For Black Woman Athletes, it’s About More Than Competition

By Lois Elfman | New York Amsterdam News | Word In Black (WIB) – There have been many iconic firsts achieved by Black women in sports. Wyomia Tyus is the first person to win back-to-back Olympic gold medals in the 100 meters. Gabby Douglas is the first Black woman to win the Olympic gymnastics all-around gold medal. Teresa Edwards is the first women’s basketball player to amass four Olympic gold medals. Vonetta Flowers is the first Black athlete to win gold at the Olympic Winter Games. Most recently, Erin Jackson became the first Black woman to win Olympic gold in speed skating. Simone Biles is the most decorated gymnast in history. These are just a handful of incredible accomplishments. What isn’t often discussed are the efforts that went into becoming leaders in sports. Even today, there are struggles with what scholar& Dr. Moya Bailey& has called& misogynoir& (the intersection of misogyny and racism). Challenges Despite the challenges, Black female athletes continue to stand in their power. Today, they are vital to the growing appreciation of and, dare we say, enthusiasm for women’s sports. WNBA player Brionna Jones of the Connecticut Sun, who won a World Cup title with the USA...