As Adam Rippon majestically glided across the ice, all eyes were fixed on him. Numerous contestants had gone before him, but something about Rippon held the eyes of the crowd. It had something to do with his glittery outfit, perfectly chiseled face, or his eyes shining like jewels. However, there seemed to be a bit more to differentiate him than just his flattering appearance.

Adam Rippon is a 28-year-old figure skater that recently won a bronze medal at the Olympics. His talent in figure skating was apparent throughout his life, having swept away awards at numerous events such as the “World Junior Championships” and the “Junior National Title.”

However, what made him truly known this time was his identity as the first openly gay American athlete to qualify for the Winter Olympics. With his effeminate and elegant style, he had conveyed a powerful message to people all around the world of an accomplished and powerful gay man. What others had feared to say, he confidently exuded onto the ice.

As America was caught up in social and political problems, he basically served as the face of a newly developing community, the LGBTQ community. Furthermore, he served as an inspiration to members of the LGBTQ community that being bold in declaring their sexual preference is the correct and respectable thing.

Overall, as much as Rippon’s feat is one worth noting solely based on its value, the ideas that Rippon live out seem to be even more revolutionary.

As the LGBTQ community continues to influence our society today, Rippon might serve as a game changer that changes the outlook of many people towards the LGBTQ community.

<Ashley Kim /New Covenant Academy 10th Grade>