The gymnastics sex abuse scandal at Michigan State University (MSU) is a testament to the betrayal that can occur within institutions entrusted with the care and well-being of individuals. Larry Nassar, a former physician at MSU and the team doctor for USA Gymnastics, abused his position of authority to exploit over 1000 victims, primarily young athletes, under the guise of medical treatment. The scandal highlights the importance of trust in institutions, as young athletes placed their faith in coaches, doctors, and administrators only to find betrayal instead of protection. It showcases power dynamics at play within institutions, where authority figures wield undue influence and victims face obstacles in reporting abuse. The culture prioritizes…show more content… The courage of survivors and activists has brought the issue of sexual abuse to the forefront of public consciousness. With over 150 victims testifying in court, they demonstrated to Nassar and MSU that they were determined to hold them accountable. Kyle Stephens, one of the survivors, reflects on the resilience of survivors, stating, “Little girls don’t stay little forever. they grow into strong women that return to destroy your world.” This encapsulates the strength and determination to seek justice and enact change. The scandal has ignited a national conversation about the need for cultural change, institutional reform, and survivor-centered approaches to addressing abuse. We must heed the lessons of the MSU scandal and the numerous other university sports scandals that preceded it. While some progress has been made, it's evident that Michigan State University has yet to take full responsibility for its actions. Despite facing a lawsuit that resulted in financial compensation for many victims, MSU has made minimal efforts to address the dynamics within the institution to prevent future harm. In contrast, USA Gymnastics has taken significant steps to accept responsibility for enabling abuse and has undergone substantial reforms. However, on the road to recovery, USA Gymnastics grapples with the repercussions of its complicity in the exploitation of young athletes. Specifically addressing the MSU victims of Larry Nassar, we must offer them not only immediate support but also ongoing assistance to aid in their healing journey. This encompasses a range of services, including trauma-informed therapy, support groups, and resources for navigating the complex legal process. Additionally, efforts must be made to address the systemic failures that allowed Nassar's abuse to persist unchecked. This entails implementing robust oversight mechanisms, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability within
