Allyson Felix: Maternity Rights in Sports

Study Notes

Allyson Felix is a 9-time Olympic track and field medalist, one of the most decorated women in track and field history, and a mother.
She has been involved in promotions for Nike, featuring in their stores and campaigns.
Felix is currently in negotiations with Nike, seeking maternity rights and protection in her contract.
She was offered 70% less pay than her previous contract, but is unwilling to budge on maternity rights, not just for herself, but for future generations of athletes.
Maternity protection is crucial, as strict requirements for returning to competition can jeopardize athletes' health and put them at risk of complications.
African-American women are four times more likely to die in childbirth and twice as likely to have complications, Felix learned after her own complicated birth experience.
Felix gave birth to her daughter at 32 weeks and spent a month in the hospital, then had to balance caring for her newborn with training for competition.
She felt like she was in an impossible situation, and believes that without maternity protection, it will be hard for other athletes to navigate similar situations.
The sports industry allows men to have a full career, but often pushes women out at their prime when they decide to have a baby.
Felix was disappointed by Nike's "Dream Crazier" campaign, which she felt didn't reflect the reality of female athletes' experiences.
Alysia and Kara, other female athletes, spoke out about their own struggles, prompting Nike to reevaluate their policies.
Felix is seeking a clear agreement from Nike on maternity protection, including details on what protection women have, and how reductions in pay will be handled upon returning from childbirth.

Description

Learn about Allyson Felix's fight for maternity rights in sports contracts, her personal struggles as a mother and athlete, and the broader implications for women in sports. Discover how she's pushing for change in the sports industry.