via Imago
Image Credits : Imago
via Imago
Image Credits : Imago
In the world of swimming, Riley Gaines has made waves for her athleticism and her advocacy for women’s rights. Alongside her role as the proprietor of “The Riley Gaines Center“ at the Leadership Institute, she serves as a distinguished ambassador for Independent Women’s Voice. Moreover, Gaines amplifies her voice through her podcast titled “Gaines for Girls with Riley Gaines.”
Recently, she was extended an invitation by renowned UFC commentator Joe Rogan to The Joe Rogan Experience. As she opened up about her stance on why she works to keep women’s sports separate from men’s sports, a saddening tale and incident was unveiled by the 23-year-old.
Riley Gaines shares a backlash incident from protestors with Joe Rogan
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On the Joe Rogan Experience, Riley Gaines shared about the incidents that led her to start advocating against transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. Despite garnering significant support for her cause, Gaines has also faced considerable disagreement and backlash. A moment stood out when Riley Gaines shared how there are problems and extremism on both the political left and right. One particular incident that left a lasting impression was when protesters, primarily from the left, gathered outside her hotel room, chanting derogatory slogans.
She told Joe Rogan, “I was in Milwaukee recently, and I had protesters stand outside my hotel room for hours, Joe hours, chanting “Riley can’t swim.”” Despite the challenges, Riley shared how she believes in the power of democracy, where the layperson can influence change. As we contemplate this moment, it’s worth exploring the origins of her advocacy for women’s rights and the events that propelled her into action.
What led her to become an advocate for women’s rights?
On the Joe Rogan Experience, Riley Gaines shared the back story of why she began advocating for keeping women’s sports separate from men’s sports. She explained her background in swimming and her dedication to the sport throughout her life. Gaines described her shock when she learned about a transgender athlete named Lia Thomas, who transitioned from male to female and began competing in women’s swimming events at the 2022 NCAA swimming championships.
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This came as a surprise to Gaines and her teammates, as they were not aware of Thomas’ background. During the championships, Gaines tied for fifth place with Lia Thomas in the 200-meter freestyle final. However, only Thomas was awarded the fifth-place trophy, leaving Gaines without one.
She expressed frustration at the decision and criticized Thomas’ participation in the competition. Gaines discussed the unfair advantage she believed transgender athletes may have over cisgender women in sports because of biological differences, such as muscle mass and bone density.
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This realization prompted a significant shift, leading her to reassess her identity and embrace advocacy against transgender athletes in women’s sports. Reflecting on Riley Gaines’s journey, what are your thoughts on her perspective? Comment below!
