What Goes Through My Mind as a Black Olympian When I Get That One Question

“What DOES it mean to me to represent the “great” country of America? The country where I’m still asked, “but where are you REALLY from?” as if only those who are pale in complexion have the right to “pure” American blood. The land of the free that locks children in cages as they cross the border. The home of the brave who make fake social media accounts that they use to threaten and harass people. The nation that my ancestors were dragged to, but were never allowed to be a part of. What does it mean to me to represent such a country?” — Tori Franklin

Read U.S. Olympic athlete Franklin’s story in its entirety below.

What Goes Through My Mind as an African American Olympian When I Get *That* Question