The Imperative of Ongoing Anti-Racism Work in Organisations
Why Organisations Must Persist in Anti-Racism Initiatives:
Lessons from Gymnastics Ireland's Response to Racism.
The recent incident involving Gymnastics Ireland (GI) starkly underlines the dire need for organisations to persist in their anti-racism work. Failing to do so tarnishes reputations and perpetuates systemic issues that harm individuals and communities.
In March 2022, a young black gymnast was snubbed during a medal ceremony, sparking international outrage. Video evidence shows her being passed over while other participants received their medals. Neither coaches, officials, nor the hundreds in the audience intervened. To make matters worse, Gymnastics Ireland suppressed a personal apology from the judge involved and declined to engage in mediation, framing the issue as a "member-to-member complaint."
For 18 months, GI made no public commitments to investigate or institute anti-racism policies, missing an opportunity to evolve and improve. The organisation’s refusal to issue a systemic apology initially and subsequent decision to apologise only after international pressure has led to criticism that GI cares more about its image than the well-being of athletes.
Had Gymnastics Ireland been proactive in anti-racism work, this heartbreaking scenario could have been avoided or handled more appropriately. The organisation’s lax attitude sends a disturbing message: it tacitly permits an atmosphere where such incidents can occur.
Celebrities like Simone Biles and Jordan Chiles have spoken out, but it’s crucial to recognise that this isn't solely an issue for public figures to resolve. Organisations have a responsibility to take sustainable steps to eradicate racism. Token apologies are insufficient; comprehensive policies and continuous action are vital.
The lesson here is unambiguous. Ignoring anti-racism work doesn’t just fail individuals; it fails us all. In a world clamouring for justice, organisations can ill afford to delay or forgo measures that address systemic racism. As we reflect on this incident, it becomes a poignant reminder: anti-racism work is not a one-time checklist item; it’s a long-term commitment that requires ongoing effort, introspection, and change.
This isn't just a call to action; it's a call to sustained action.
The Role of Bystander Apathy
The Missed Opportunity for Intervention in the Gymnastics Ireland Incident
One of the most perplexing aspects of the disturbing event involving Gymnastics Ireland was the presence of bystanders—officials, coaches, and even a photographer—who did nothing to correct the glaring oversight in real-time. Their inaction represents a phenomenon known as "bystander apathy," a profoundly troubling testament to the complacency that often surrounds racism and injustice.
The Photographer: A Symbol of Wider Apathy
Among the bystanders, the photographer stands out as a particularly telling example. Armed with a camera, this individual had the power to capture moments that celebrated achievement, yet they chose to stay silent, disregarding the glaring omission happening right before them. It begs the question: why didn't the photographer—or any other bystander—tap the medal giver to correct the situation?
The Complicity of Silence
In such situations, silence is more than just a lack of action; it's an endorsement of the status quo. Each person who failed to intervene bears some responsibility for allowing the incident to occur and fester without redress. This collective silence can perpetuate systemic problems by creating an environment where issues of discrimination are not just ignored but normalised.
The Domino Effect: What Could Have Been
Imagine for a moment what would have happened if the photographer or any other bystander had stepped in to address the issue. The immediate impact would have been correcting an egregious oversight, saving the young gymnast from humiliation. On a broader level, it would have sent a strong message to Gymnastics Ireland and similar organisations that racial discrimination is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at any level. This type of active intervention could have a domino effect, inspiring others to be more vigilant and proactive in addressing racism when they see it.
The Need for Cultural Change
This incident is a wake-up call for organisations to cultivate an atmosphere where bystander intervention is encouraged and rewarded. Staff and officials at all levels should be trained to recognise and address incidents of discrimination and harassment. Creating a culture that doesn't just avoid racism but actively combats it is essential for any organisation aspiring to be truly inclusive.
The Call for Sustained Action, Revisited
The Gymnastics Ireland incident and the lack of bystander intervention demonstrate that anti-racism work requires comprehensive, systemic change—a shift in policy and culture. If we're serious about tackling racism, it’s not enough for organisations to merely avoid being part of the problem; they must be active in the solution. Let's ensure our actions speak even louder in a world where a picture is worth a thousand words. In this case, a video shows 101 ways why being an antiracist is not a trend but an action that could have saved a bright young girl from a world of pain.
The failure to act can be as damaging as the act itself. This is not just a call to action; it's a call for each of us to participate in the fight against racism every day actively.