Six-time Olympic medal winner Aly Raisman addresses ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics Dr. Larry Nassar during her statement on the fourth day of Nassar's sentencing on Jan. 19, 2018 at the Ingham County Circuit Court in Lansing. (Nic Antaya | The State News)
Over 300 survivors of ex-MSU and USA Gymnastics doctor Larry Nassar’s sexual abuse will be honored tonight by receiving the Arthur Ashe Courage Award at the ESPN EPSYs.
Survivors of Nassar’s abuse will receive the Arthur Ashe Courage Award for their bravery in coming forward and telling their stories in victim impact statements in court and to the world.
“The strength and resolve these individuals have shown in speaking out has brought the darkness of sexual abuse into the light and inspired many others to speak up about their own experiences,” ESPN said in a press release. “In recognition of their undisputed bravery, they will be honored with the Arthur Ashe Courage Award.”
Aly Raisman will be one of the survivors to speak during the award acceptance tonight.
“I’m very, very beyond grateful that they’re giving us an opportunity to speak our truth,” Raisman said to ABC News. “And honoring us, it means so much to us.”
The Arthur Ashe Courage Award “pays tribute to those who find ways through sports to make a difference far beyond the field of play and impact in the world in indelible ways,” the press release said.
“For 25 years, the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage has been given to those who change the world in important ways, and the future will undoubtedly be different because of the actions of these heroic women,” Maura Mandt, executive producer for the ESPYS, said in the press release. “This tribute will reflect the awe and admiration these individuals deserve.”
The EPSYs will air live on ABC at 8 p.m. tonight and will also be live streamed online at WatchESPN.
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