At the ESPYS last night in Los Angeles, nearly 150 gymnasts and survivors of the abuse of Larry Nassar stood proudly on the stage and accepted the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the close of the ceremony. Former gymnasts Aly Raisman, Sarah Klein, and Jordyn Wieber were among those who received the award at the Microsoft Theater in downtown LA. 

“Make no mistake, we are here on this stage to present an image for the world to see: a portrait of survival, a new vision of courage,” Klein said. 

Named after American tennis player Arthur Ashe and first given in 1993, the award has been granted to people and athletes across a huge spectrum of sports: Muhammad Ali, Nelson Mandela, and many others.

In January, Nassar was sentenced 40 to 175 years in prison by Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, after a lengthy trial that involved statements and testimonies not only by Raisman and Wieber but also, notably, Rachael Denhollander, 

Although half a year has passed since Nassar’s sentencing, gymnastics as a sport remains at a crossroads. The subsequent responses of institutions like USA Gymnastics, Michigan State University, and the United States Olympic Committee have incited continuing anger and questions from many gymnasts, most vociferously, perhaps, Raisman herself. 

The changes have not stopped, either. Among the many changes in the recent months have been the resignation of Valeri Liukin and the dismissal of Rhonda Faehn.

For today’s piece, we’re not going to look at a beautiful beam routine or thunderous vault, but instead we’re remembering what Raisman said at the sentencing.