SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Behavioral Health Action (BHA) co-chairs Carmela Coyle and Jessica Cruz today released the following statement regarding Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from U.S. team gymnastics finals at the Tokyo Olympic Games.
“Simone Biles showed the world today that her courage and bravery is just as extraordinary as her athletic ability. Her willingness to speak out sends a powerful message that the world needs to hear. Simply put, Simone’s courage will save lives.
Behavioral Health Action lauds Biles and shares her commitment to advancing the conversation around behavioral health in California, because the first step to addressing this crisis is acknowledging these challenges in the first place. People should never suffer in silence. Biles’ courage will inspire countless others to speak up. She made history today and is a true champion for everyone who has experienced or has a loved one enduring a behavioral health challenge.”
About Behavioral Health Action:
Behavioral Health Action is a coalition of more than 50 statewide organizations with behavioral health expertise in California. The coalition represents individuals and families, small businesses, labor, law enforcement, service and not-for-profit providers, county mental health departments and more. This first-of-its-kind, broad-based coalition of organizations represents California’s extensive and diverse system of care for behavioral health services.
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