Posted by Have you ever watched the Olympics, and wondered why women are always wearing close to no clothes, especially in gymnastics or beach volleyball?
Our constructed society has for as long as we can remember, sexualized women based on what they wear. Same ideologies have been adapted in sports, where the only difference is choice. Teams competing in the Olympics, do not actually have a choice on the attires they have to wear, which is decided by the committee.
It is no secrete that it has been a topic of conversation for a long time, but the pushbacks became much more prominent and visible this year. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a majority of us watched and discussed the games from our homes, which has sparked great debates, especially when the Norwegian women’s volleyball team decided to take a stand and wear shorts rather than “the degrading bikini bottoms” provided.
Risking expulsion and penalty fees, the pushbacks have resulting in a turning point for women athletes, who are taking control of their rights and image in the international spotlight, reflected all over social media.
The online activism that has taken place on Instagram, Twitter, and the news in general, is not only a step in the right direction but a strong message that we need to change the way we sexualize women and drive positive social change in our constructed and oppressive societies.
These double standards in an international competition broadcasted to such a large audience is setting the stage for what is coming next. As the team player Lerstad states:
“I hope that it’s a trend we started. Before women just thought: ‘It is how it is.’ But now we are taking control over the outfits. It’s great”
The online support has come from all corners of the world, including famous artists, influencers, and the public.
As many argue that it has to do with more than just sports, such as building a brand, others also argue that it should solely be about performance. Women should not have to sexualize themselves by wearing less, to seem more attractive to the business world. As Mary Harvey, the CEO of the Centre for Sport and Human Rights, said:
“One thing is the function of what you’re wearing and how that helps you physiologically. The other one is mental. If you feel good, you’re going to do well.”
Similar debates have taken place in gymnastics, where men are given long pants and women provided with something that looks more like a swimsuit. Interestingly, there are many other components that should not be overlooked, such as religion. To move forward and create social change and a positive environment where athletes can thrive and feel comfortable, we need to embrace diversity in decision-making. Fundamental to doing so, is to listen to female voices and take it into consideration were designing and shaping the rules and regulations for these competitions.