The Women’s Resource Center hosted Aly Raisman on April 19 as part of the UW-Milwaukee Distinguished Lecture Series for Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Raisman is the third most decorated United States gymnast. She won six Olympic medals and lead the gold medal winning Women’s Gymnastics teams in 2012 and 2016. In 2017, she became the published author of the New York Times Bestseller “Fierce: How Competing for Myself Changed Everything.”
Now she ventures outside her home in Boston to lead conversations about sexual assault awareness, self-care and body positivity.
After living a victory-focused life, Raisman has decided to slow down and take time to discover what makes her happy.
“If I didn’t do well, I felt like my whole life was over,” said Raisman. “I don’t feel that way anymore. Winning doesn’t make tough times enjoyable.”
She has learned to appreciate alone-time and encourages young women to have trust in themselves.
“If you’re spending time with someone, and you have an odd feeling about it, trust that,” said Raisman. “Listen to what feels right for you. We’re not always going to feel confident, calm or safe with a person. So many people are going so many miles per hour, and it’s really hard to go at that pace.”
Raisman has been working with Aerie, a women’s clothing brand, for over four years. Aerie does not retouch any of its photos and focuses on spreading body positivity.
“Through working with Aerie, I’ve met a lot of good friends,” said Raisman. “They’ve shown me the value in having a great support system. It was so eye opening when I realized they were focused on how I’m feeling rather than how I look. I’ve had to unlearn the things I was told in gymnastics. In my experience, there was so much pressure on me to lose weight.”
While she was facing the hardships of her career, Raisman recognized the importance of validating one’s experiences.
“Oftentimes when we experience something hard, we diminish it by comparing it to other people’s trauma,” said Raisman. “It’s important to give yourself the time and kindness that you need.”
Raisman used her platform and voice to share her experience.
“One time is too many times, and one person is too many people,” said Raisman.
Taking time to heal and live for herself is Raisman’s top priority this year.
“I want to wake up in the morning and feel calm,” said Raisman. “I want to go to bed at night and feel calm. I haven’t achieved either of those yet, but I’m working on it.”