With a 2–1 triumph over Canada, the United States women’s national ice hockey team took home Olympic gold in this year’s winter Olympics. However, despite them getting the exact same score as the men’s hockey team, there has been a disturbing difference in their treatment compared to the men’s team. Which makes one wonder: Why are women’s accomplishments in athletics always disrespected?
The President’s Response
One particular incident that incited outrage amongst people online was President Donald Trump’s difference in reaction when it came to the men’s team’s victory compared to the women’s hockey team. In a viral congratulatory phone call with the men’s hockey team, Trump first praised the team, following with the joke that he now “must” invite the women’s team, as he will “probably be impeached” if he doesn’t.
Still, the women’s team was invited to the State of the Union address but turned down the offer due to prior academic and professional obligations.
Public Backlash and Broader Disrespect
The backlash came quick, with many taking issue with the president’s remarks, viewing it as him belittling the accomplishments of the women’s hockey team and how, despite the fact that the women’s hockey team has won the most gold medals for the United States for three Olympic seasons running, their achievements are being mocked and undermined in comparison to their male counterparts.
Many have taken to online platforms such as Reddit to express their annoyance mainly at the lack of respect being given to the women’s team compared with the men’s and how the men’s team laughing at Trump’s statement felt like not only the president undermining their accomplishments but also their fellow competitors.
This discourse brings light to an issue many female athletes have dealt with: a lack of fair recognition.
Support Beyond the Ice
Following the president’s comment, many celebrities and companies have come out not only congratulating the team but also offering various gestures to celebrate and reward the women’s team. With one of those celebrities being the rapper Flavor Flav, who stated that he wanted to recognize the team with a fully paid trip to Las Vegas, including a concert, glam squad, dinner, and hotel stays. With many other brands like Lyft, Top Golf, and Randy’s Donuts wanting to pitch in and show their support as well.
Respect, Representation, and Recognition
The response to Trump’s words and the following discussion about the U.S. women’s hockey team exposes much about how society values —and undervalues— female athletes.
Female athletes have to keep showing that their achievements merit the same respect as their male counterparts. Though some may argue that all the president did was make a joke, that joke revealed a pattern by which women’s accomplishments are often regarded as less important.
The U.S. women’s hockey team’s journey in Milan meant finally gaining respect on the worldwide stage for all of the hardwork and dedication they have put into this sport and the fact that they still haven’t gained that is heartbreaking. All we can hope is that this event opens the eyes of those who have been blind or indifferent to the treatment of women athletes and that this encourages more people to support them in their endeavors.
