Simone Biles recently took to social media to express her love for her ‘Black job’ after securing her sixth gold medal and ninth overall medal in the women’s all-around gymnastics competition at the Olympics. This victory marks another milestone in her illustrious career as she becomes only the third woman gymnast to achieve this feat.
In her post, Biles seemed to subtly reference former President Donald J. Trump’s controversial remarks about ‘Black jobs’ being taken by undocumented immigrants. Trump’s comments, made during a debate against President Biden, received criticism for suggesting certain types of jobs apply to Black people. When questioned about the term ‘Black job’ during a conference of Black journalists, Trump defended his statement by saying it refers to anyone who has a job.
During the same appearance, Trump also questioned Vice President Kamala Harris’ racial identity, insinuating that she only recently identified as Black for political gain. These comments garnered widespread condemnation and added fuel to the ongoing debate surrounding race and identity in politics.
As Biles basked in the glory of her Olympic triumph, Democrats seized the opportunity to highlight comments made by Republican Senator JD Vance about her mental health struggles during the previous Olympics. Vance, in a Fox News appearance, criticized the praise Biles received for prioritizing her well-being over competition, questioning society’s emphasis on vulnerability over strength.
Democratic operatives wasted no time resurfacing Vance’s remarks, pointing out the hypocrisy of his criticism given his own political missteps. A spokesperson for the Democratic National Committee called out Vance for his insensitive comments and highlighted his declining popularity as a potential vice presidential candidate.
Overall, Biles’ social media post not only celebrates her achievement but also sheds light on the ongoing conversations surrounding race, identity, and mental health in the public sphere. As she continues to inspire fans worldwide with her athletic prowess and resilience, her voice serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-care and authenticity in the face of scrutiny and criticism.
