OLYMPICS: Khelif is a human being

Imagine being born differently. Having a disorder, a difference that you had no choice over. Imagine being a child, knowing you’re different and just wanting to “fit in.” Imagine then finding an activity or sport that you’re passionate about and naturally talented at. You’ve finally found a place where you feel like you belong. Imagine being self-conscious, despite your newfound passion, but moving past it and being incredibly successful, making your family and your country proud. As you compete in your sport, representing your country, imagine your identity being questioned. Imagine it being personal, volatile and embarrassing. You’re human, you’re a person, with real feelings who has overcome a lot. You move past it, hold your head up high and continue on because you’re resilient.

Imagine being all over social media outlets, news channels and the butt of memes.

This is not a LGBTQ issue. This is a random roll of the DNA dice. Imane Khelif is a human, who happens to have a chromosomal disorder. She is a FEMALE, born one and still one. Imagine her being your child. Imagine you being her.

We were all created imperfect. The plan for this was not so that we could ridicule or judge each other.

Human decency and empathy are simple and makes a difference for all that are around you.

Imagine a world where judgement was rare, and acceptance was common.

ASHLEY SPENCER (she/her)

Coeur d’Alene