Throughout the history of sports in America, minorities have been at a severe disadvantage in achieving success. Although the country has come a long way in integrating competent athletes into professional sports, several sports are predominantly white. You rarely see a minority on the swim team. Caucasians also dominate golf and hockey leagues. One of the most important sports that strives to overcome racial barriers is gymnastics. Gymnastics is a predominantly white sport, not only in America but throughout Europe. Since Dianne Durham was the first African American to compete at the elite level in the 1980s, only a handful of black gymnasts have been recognized at the national level. It wasn't until 1996 that a black gymnast won a gold medal at the Olympics. Dominique Dawes competed in Atlanta and made history by being the first black person, regardless of nationality, to win a gold medal in gymnastics. Although gymnastics has made progress, particularly among African-Americans, they still have prejudices to overcome. Today, two black women are establishing themselves as notable figures in gymnastics, Gabby Douglas and Simone Biles. Douglas, at age 16, became the first woman of color, regardless of nationality, to win a gold medal in the individual all-around at the 2012 Summer Olympics. She received much attention for her performance , but the media also focused on his race. Many reported that she made history, being the first black woman to win gold medals in both the individual and group all-around events in the same year. She also received a lot of criticism for her hair. Many people took to social media to express their disapproval of Douglas' "unkempt" hair. Criticisms included that she wasn't stylish or relaxed...... middle of paper...... United States. They could also provide scholarships to those who show promise to enable them to pursue gymnastics without the financial burden on family. This solution would encourage many girls to practice this sport and the success rate would be fair. Although there is little diversity in many sports, gymnastics is beginning to make strides toward multiracial integration. Gabby Douglas and Simone Biles are creating waves in the gymnastics community, sparking national pride with each gold medal. They are leading the fight against racism in gymnastics by proving that they are just as good, if not better, than traditional gymnasts through their hard work and perseverance, combined with their raw talent. They inspire girls around the world to achieve their dreams, no matter what obstacles get in their way. These are the American heroes who marked the history of the gymnast.