Chicago Olympic bobsledder Aja Evans sues team chiropractor, alleging sexual abuse

Olympic Bobsled Medalist Files Lawsuit Alleging Sexual Abuse and Harassment

Aja Evans, an Olympic bobsled medalist from Chicago, has filed a lawsuit against the USA Bobsled and Skeleton Federation, alleging nearly a decade of “sexual abuse and harassment” by the team’s osteopathic medical provider. The lawsuit, filed in New York, highlights the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aims to bring attention to the importance of protecting athletes and ensuring their well-being.

Allegations of Abuse and Harassment

1. The complaint states that the abuse began in 2012 under the guise of athletic medical care by Dr. John Wilhelm, the medical provider for the team.
2. Evans’ attorneys from The Simpson Tuegel Law Firm claim that Wilhelm repeatedly touched Evans’ genitals and inner groin area, despite no issues specific to that area.
3. Several of Evans’ teammates also allegedly experienced similar behavior from Wilhelm, who would frequently “go for the adductor” without their consent.
4. The lawsuit further alleges that Wilhelm took nonconsensual photographs of Evans and her teammates while they were undressed.

Lack of Action by Authorities

• Evans and her teammates reported Wilhelm’s nonconsensual photography in 2017 to USA Bobsled, but no investigation was initiated by the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) or USA Bobsled.
• The lawsuit holds both USA Bobsled and the USOPC accountable for enabling Wilhelm’s predatory conduct and neglecting the well-being of their athletes.

Denial and Consequences

Wilhelm has denied the allegations made against him, stating that he has not yet had the opportunity to defend himself in court. However, Evans claims that the repeated molestation and sexual assault have caused chronic anxiety and emotional damage.

Importance of Accountability and Justice

• This lawsuit not only seeks to protect other athletes from Wilhelm’s behavior but also aims to hold USA Bobsled and the USOPC accountable for their role in enabling the abuse.
• The complaint also highlights the systemic inequities suffered by athletes of color within USA Bobsled and emphasizes the need for a culture of transparency and support.

Support from Legal Representation

Michelle Simpson Tuegel, an attorney representing Evans, compares her client’s experience to the widespread sexual abuse faced by USA gymnasts. She is committed to bringing both Wilhelm and the national organizations that enabled his behavior to justice.

Response from International Federation of Sports Chiropractic

The International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) acknowledges the seriousness of the accusations against one of its members and has launched an internal investigation. FICS emphasizes the importance of compliance with professional and educational standards to ensure the well-being of athletes.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 5: Gender Equality
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
• SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in the public and private spheres, including trafficking and sexual and other types of exploitation.
• SDG 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic, and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.
• SDG 16.2: End abuse, exploitation, trafficking and all forms of violence against and torture of children.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• Indicator for SDG 5.2: Number of cases of violence and harassment against women and girls reported and resolved.
• Indicator for SDG 10.2: Proportion of people who feel safe walking alone around the area they live.
• Indicator for SDG 16.2: Number of cases of abuse, exploitation, trafficking, and violence against children reported and resolved.

Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

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Source: nbcchicago.com

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