It’s time to celebrate black excellence. Peeping inside the athletic realm wouldn’t surprise us as 2023 has been a historical year of achievement for people of color. Standing on top is the most decorated gymnast in history, Simone Biles. Seated beside her are prominent names like Jordan Chiles, Shilese Jones, Khoi Young, Fred Richard, and more, who have emerged victorious in their athletic stretch.

Despite getting acknowledged for their adeptness and perseverance, we can’t forget about the legendary American name, Martin Luther King Jr. Every year on his birthday (15th January), the entire nation celebrates his rectitude. Following the path of truth and non-violence, the activist fought for the rights of African Americans till his last breath. This year, USA Gymnastics has adopted a unique way to remember him.

USA Gymnastics recognizes athletes of color

Posting a collage of all the known faces in the athletic world, USA Gymnastics paired it with a heartfelt caption. The X post reads, “On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we recognize and celebrate the Black athletes on the 2023 World Championships & Pan American Games teams”. One of the primary reasons talented youngsters can make their mark is because the King has paved the way. Since he comprehended the depth of poverty and racism at a very tender age, he could stand up for the less privileged in his days. Holding strong repugnance for the idea of segregation, his contributions to the American civil rights movement are unimaginable.

Popular for the “I Have a Dream” speech, the Atlanta native always wished to see big names. Had he been alive, he would have taken pride in the all-black podium the world drank to at the recent World Artistic Gymnastics Championships.

US gymnastics’ all-black podium

In 2023, several gymnastics men and women beheld their individual history etching moments. Out of all, Biles, Rebecca Andrade and Shilese Jones gracing the three top podium spots at the World Championships stage, made headlines. Besides anchoring her team to the gold, she had also earned her 6th all-around World title scoring 58.399.

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But her Brazilian counterpart Andrade on silver and US comrade Jones on bronze was the most glorious moment for Biles. Issuing an inspirational note to all budding stars, she had said, “We had all-black podium of girls, so I think that was amazing, black girl magic. So hopefully it teaches all the young girls out there that you can do anything you put your minds to, so keep training hard”. As the Paris Olympics is nearing, there’s a possibility of another podium of color by the icons.

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