Indianapolis Star Exec Editor Ronnie Ramos penned an open letter to new USA Gymnastics President & CEO Li Li Leung, writing the way USAG handled the announcement of her hiring "raises concerns" about the future. As has "been the case for the last three years, USA Gymnastics specifically excluded the IndyStar from the initial media call" announcing Leung's appointment. The Star has run several investigative pieces on USAG in recent years, and by excluding the paper, Indiana's largest media organization, USAG "excluded the people of Indianapolis." This is "meaningful in that it is indicative of an unwillingness to do what the abuse survivors -- and this community -- have repeatedly called for: a new path forward focused on positive change." Ramos: "Not a continuation of the secrecy of the past." It is time for the community to hear from Leung and "from sports leaders throughout the city." Ramos: "We also hope a dialogue will include hearing from other local leaders." Ramos specifically named former USAG BOD member Jim Morris and Notre Dame AD Jack Swarbrick, who was the NGB’s former legal counsel, as people he wants to hear from. Ramos: "It’s stunning, really, how USA Gymnastics has responded to our reporting. Our interests should align. We ask that you join us" (INDYSTAR.com, 2/24).
