Most people agree that Chrissy Teigen is a national treasure. Her entire Twitter feed should be archived. But she’s not only hilarious, she stands up and speaks out about causes that are important and should be in the public spotlight. One such instance is the highly disturbing case of ex-U.S. Gymnastics team doctor Larry Nassar.
Nassar, who has been accused of sexually abusing over 140 women, was previously sentenced to 60 years in prison for possession of child pornography. He now faces charges of criminal sexual conduct that could result in life sentences in prison. Some of the survivors of his horrific acts include Aly Raisman, Simone Biles, Gabby Douglas, and McKayla Maroney.
Under the guise of medical treatment, Nassar sexually abused countless victims – some of them as young as 6 years old. However, it looks like justice is finally being served as the victims and their family members take the stand to share their stories and testify against their predators. One of the victims who was asked to take the stand is McKayla Maroney.
In October of this past year, Maroney revealed that she had been abused by Nassar from the age of 13 to the age of 20. She explained that the atrocious acts committed against her led her to consider committing suicide. When U.S. Gymnastics heard of the abuse, they gave McKayla a $1.25 million settlement which included an NDA that prevented the 22-year-old from publicly outing Nassar. To do so, would require her to pay a $100,000 penalty.
Teigen heard of the hefty fine that McKayla would have to incur that’s in addition to the pain that she’s already sustained, and offered to pay the penalty if she chooses to speak out. She tweeted, “The entire principle of this should be fought – an NDA to stay quiet about this serial monster with over 140 accusers, but I would be absolutely honoured to pay this fine for you, McKayla.”
Maroney responded to Chrissy Teigen on Tuesday in a statement through her lawyer: “I’m shocked by your generosity, and I just want you to know how much hope your words bring to all of us! I just can’t get over the fact that someone I don’t personally know is sticking up for me, let alone a strong woman that I’ve looked up to for years!”
The fact that Chrissy Teigen made it public that she would be willing to pay the fine on McKayla’s behalf is important because it draws public scrutiny, not only over the abhorrent actions of Nassar but also the ridiculous fine that silences victims and protects their abusers.
Whether or not it was a direct result of Teigen’s tweet and the backlash that ensued after people got wind of the fine, the U.S.A Gymnastics released a statement that stated they would not seek money from Maroney if she chose to offer her testimony in court.
The statement reads, “USA Gymnastics encourages McKayla and anyone who has been abused to speak out. USA Gymnastics remains focused on our highest priority -– the safety, health, and well-being of our athletes and creating a culture that empowers and supports them.”
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