virginian – Springwolf Reflections

All Round Gymnastics Gold

AP Photo / Gregory Bull

Our local news here is all a buzz over one of our own (a Virginian), Gabby Douglas, who won Olympic Gold in the all around Gymnastics competition. GYMNASTICS: Virginia Beach’s Douglas wins all-around gold

Congratulations to Gabby and all the competitors.

What struck me most as we watched all the local news coverage and perused the papers this morning, you know what the headlines didn’t say, at least here in our little world? They don’t say First “Black” American To Win Olympic Gold in Gymnastics! While that is a measurable achievement, and it was mentioned as it should be for young African American girls everywhere – it’s a bigger compliment to simply say First American To Win Gold in Gymnastics since 1996.

Imagine a day when the color of your skin NEVER makes a news headline. She’s not a Black American. She’s an American! And we’re VERY PROUD OF OUR GABBY!

Congratulations also to all our American Athletes! Whither they brought home a medal or not, we’re proud of each and every one of them for the efforts, work and participation. Everything else is merely decoration on an already wonderful cake!