Riley Gaines, a former collegiate swimmer and advocate, spoke at Liberty University recently, urging students to stand firm when facing challenges. With a record of 12 NCAA All-American titles and five SEC Championships, Gaines gained attention in 2022 when she competed against Lia Thomas, a transgender woman who had transitioned from the men’s division.
Gaines described her experience of competing against Thomas as frustrating. "There were so many girls like me who had trained their whole lives to reach that point," she recalled. Initially, she felt pressured to stay silent about the situation. But witnessing its impact on her life pushed her to speak up. “I realized I couldn’t just wait for others to act," she shared.
This moment sparked her commitment to advocate for women’s sports, a path she hadn’t anticipated. “God’s calling led me here,” she said. Gaines echoed biblical themes about trusting God’s purpose, reminding listeners of spiritual battles manifesting in today’s society. She emphasized the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter how difficult it may seem.
While she once envisioned a career in dentistry, Gaines felt a deeper urge to defend women’s rights in sports. "This became more important to me than anything else," she explained. She urged the students to find their purpose and follow it, highlighting that everyone has a role to play in making a difference.
Experts weigh in on the topic as well. According to a recent Gallup poll, 62% of Americans believe that sports should be played based on biological sex, reflecting ongoing societal discussions around gender identity in athletics. This indicates a considerable public interest in how these matters evolve.
Gaines’s journey has also sparked significant conversation on social media, with hashtags like #FairPlay garnering attention. Such discussions illustrate how the topic resonates widely, reflecting diverse opinions on inclusion, fairness, and the future of sports.
In summary, Riley Gaines’s message at Liberty University was clear: have courage and honor God’s calling in your life. Whether in sports or any other field, each person can contribute to the greater good. For more on her views and experiences, check out the episode on the Standing for Freedom Center’s “Give Me Liberty” podcast, available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music.
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