American Olympian taking social media breather over 'hate' after Trump criticism
American figure skater Amber Glenn plans to reduce her social media use due to receiving hate messages following her criticism of the Trump administration.
Amber Glenn, an American Olympic figure skater, announced on Saturday that she will be limiting her social media presence after experiencing a backlash for her comments regarding the Trump administration. Glenn voiced her concerns during a pre-Olympics press conference, expressing how the administration's policies have created a challenging environment for her and the LGBT community. Her remarks were part of a broader dialogue among U.S. athletes who are increasingly speaking out about political issues leading up to the Winter Games.
Following her statements, Glenn reported receiving a significant amount of hate and even threats online, which she described as "scary." In a social media post, she emphasized the importance of exercising her freedom of speech as an athlete representing Team USA, yet felt disheartened by the negative responses to her candid expression of views during the conference. This incident highlights the challenges athletes face when they engage in political discourse, especially given the polarized political climate in the U.S.
The backlash towards Glenn underscores a growing trend where athletes are increasingly vocal about their beliefs and the implications of political decisions on their communities. As she prepares for the upcoming Winter Olympics, this experience raises questions about the intersection of sports and politics, and how personal convictions can lead to public scrutiny, potentially affecting athletes' mental health and social interactions in an era where social media amplifies all voices, both supportive and hostile.