Allyship and Inclusivity in Gymnastics and College Athletics: Megan Skaggs and Mary Korlin-Downs

What does it mean to be an ally in the fight against racism? In this conversation, we explore the meaning of the term allyship, the challenges that come with being an ally and ways to make college athletics a more inclusive space. Megan Skaggs and Mary Korlin-Downs, two All-American gymnasts who are both white, are spearheading separate efforts to promote racial equity and inclusion. Skaggs, a student-athlete at the University of Florida, created a cause-based campaign, the Tiny Bow Project, raising funds and awareness for different social issues during each week of her gymnastics season. Causes thus far have included human trafficking, LGBTQ+ rights and autism, and this week her cause is 'Allyship.' She is using her platform to support RISE’s work and efforts to achieve racial justice. She’ll be wearing matching bows in her hair to represent this cause during Florida’s home meet on Feb. 11 against LSU and is getting teammates and opponents to do the same. Korlin-Downs, who graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2021, has since created a new company, Our Colour Wrap, which designs inclusive athletic tape to match a wide spectrum of skin tones for athletes of all races and colors.