“It feels like maybe our culture is finally shifting. Maybe survivors will be believed, and enablers will be stopped and so will predators. It’s pretty exciting,” Thomashow, who filed the first Title IX complaint against Nassar, told THR.
When speaking to the crowd at the premiere, the activist said the film “gives us an amazing opportunity to learn about how abusers thrive in patriarchal systems of oppression” and provides an opportunity for collective effort to “start shifting this culture that enables predators towards a culture that empowers survivors and appreciates everybody and notices that everyone’s voice matters. Everybody’s stories matter. It’s not just dollars and reputation. But human beings. That’s what matters.” Speaking to fellow survivors who will be watching, Thomashow said she wanted them to know “they are not alone, and they do not need to carry the burden of shame anymore. We have an army. We stand by them, support them and believe them. And I think it’s important also to send a message to any predator or enabler out there that their days are numbered.”
‘Heart of Gold’ Team on Capturing “Historical Moment” for Women in HBO Gymnastics Scandal Doc, The Hollywood Reporter
Gonczar, who wore a dress adorned with 493 flowers for every sister survivor, told THR, “We’re really proud, too, to be on the forefront of that [movement] because, truly, we are never backing down.”
‘Heart of Gold’ Team on Capturing “Historical Moment” for Women in HBO Gymnastics Scandal Doc, The Hollywood Reporter