Critics React as Two Progressive Icons Triumph
This past weekend at the 2026 Winter Olympics, Amber Glenn and Alysa Liu emerged victorious in the team figure skating event. Their victory is significant, not just for their athletic achievements, but also for their progressive activism and queer identities, marking a bold stand in response to far-right criticism.
Amber Glenn and Alysa Liu: Icons of Progressivism
During a pre-Olympic press conference, Amber Glenn, who identifies as pansexual, voiced concerns about the Trump administration’s attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals and immigrants. “It’s been hard for the community overall,” she remarked, emphasizing the need for solidarity among marginalized groups. Her comments sparked a backlash from conservative commentators and influencers.
Backlash and Death Threats
- Conservative social media influencers criticized Glenn’s remarks, intensifying the scrutiny on her and Liu.
- Glenn received death threats but persisted in her advocacy.
- Despite the controversy, both skaters delivered impressive performances during the competition.
The duo’s success is underscored by Glenn’s strong third-place finish in her segment and Liu’s second-place score. Collectively, their contributions helped the U.S. team secure gold.
A Historic Victory
This triumph made Glenn the first openly queer woman’s singles skater from the U.S. to win Olympic gold. Post-victory, she took to TikTok, humorously addressing their detractors with a post that read, “they hate to see two woke bitches win.”
Advocacy in Figure Skating
Both athletes are deeply committed to progressive issues within the sport. Amber Glenn often sports a progress pride pin, highlighting her support for LGBTQ+ rights, particularly transgender participation in figure skating. “Everyone deserves to enjoy and compete in this sport,” Glenn stated.
Alysa Liu also advocates for inclusivity. Recently, she changed her pronouns to she/they on social media, signaling her commitment to representation within the community.
Political Climate and Figure Skating Policies
These victories come in the wake of U.S. Figure Skating’s controversial decision to ban transgender athletes from competing according to their gender identity, a policy shift influenced by the Trump administration’s executive orders. This change has affected countless local and recreational skaters nationwide.
Unlike U.S. Figure Skating’s move, Glenn and Liu represent a forward-thinking mindset in the world of sports. Their dedication to advocacy against political oppression is as commendable as their athletic prowess. Both skaters are scheduled to compete in the women’s individual competition, with events taking place from February 17 to February 19.
