Aly Raisman Represents Survivors of Sexual Abuse at 2017 Glamour Women of the Year Awards

Olympic gymnast shared an emotional speech at the star-studded event honoring female trailblazers

By McKenna Aiello Nov 14, 2017 3:14 AMTags
Aly Raisman, Glamour 2017 Women of The Year AwardsJamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Glamour

Aly Raisman is standing in solidarity with the #MeToo movement. 

After accusing scorned Team USA doctor Larry Nassar of sexual assault, the Olympic gold medalist took the stage at the 2017 Glamour Women of the Year Awards Friday evening in New York City with a powerful message for fellow survivors. 

"Most people know me as a gymnast," Raisman, 23, shared in an emotional speech, "but I am also a survivor. I am among a huge number of young gymnasts abused by US Olympic and USA Gymnastics team doctor, Larry Nasssar."

(Nassar currently faces 22 counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct, but has denied the allegations and has plead not guilty to the assault charges.)

Raisman continued, "This man held a position of influence and power in the sport for more than 20 years. The extent of harm he caused is beyond comprehension. More than 130 young women have filed lawsuits alleging abuse by Nassar and we may never know how many others may be suffering in silence. I stand here for all of them." 

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2017 Glamour Women of the Year Awards: Red Carpet Fashion

She continued, "I am beyond disgusted that a decorated Olympic and USA Gymnastics doctor was able to prey upon so many over such a long period of time; and until we fully understand the flaws in the system that allowed this to happen in the first place—and enabled it to continue for decades—we can't be confident it won't happen again... I am determined to work towards real and meaningful change."

Aly was joined by Anita Hill, Ann Cardenas and Cameron Russell, three other women who shared their sexual abuse and harassment stories publicly. At the end of the segment, they invited audience members who have felt the impact of assault—either personally or from someone they love—to stand. 

Now in its 27th year, the Glamour Women of the Year Awards honors female change-makers and leaders. 2017's honorees include Nicole KidmanSolange KnowlesGigi HadidSamantha Bee, Congresswoman Maxine WatersPatty Jenkins and more. 

Take a look at every celeb's stunning arrival on the red carpet below: 

Serena Williams

The tennis champ and new mom arrives to the 2017 Glamour Women of the Year Awards in a black mini-dress with gold embellishments. 

Yolanda, Bella & Gigi Hadid

Ahead of accepting the Supernova Award, Gigi gets some red carpet love from her supermodel sister and famous mom. 

Ashley Graham

Bombshell alert! The model rocks a stylish suit for the big event. 

Keith Urban & Nicole Kidman

The country music superstar supports his wife as she prepares to receive the Icon Award.

Aly Raisman

Belle of the ball! The decorated gymnast has a princess moment in a light pink strapless gown. 

Nick Jonas

The "Chains" singer goes for a sophisticated ensemble in all black. 

Zendaya

Only one word comes to mind when we see the actress in this pink satin jumpsuit: Fierce

Tracee Ellis Ross

Female empowerment looks amazing on this Black-ish star!

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