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Figure Skater Amber Glenn Targeted by Online Threats

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ater-amber-glenn-targeted-by-online-threats.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 16:41 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

February 8th, 2026 - Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn has temporarily stepped away from social media following a surge of threats and harassment, bringing renewed attention to the increasing dangers faced by athletes who use their platforms to advocate for social and political causes. Glenn deactivated her accounts after receiving targeted abuse, reportedly stemming from her identity and public support of LGBTQ+ rights.

Coach Lori Nichol confirmed the decision in a public statement, stating, "Amber is currently taking a break from social media due to the ongoing threats and harassment she has received. She and her family are safe. We are working with authorities to address this matter and will keep her fans updated as appropriate."

Glenn's experience isn't isolated. It's part of a disturbing trend of escalating online abuse directed at athletes, particularly those who dare to express views that deviate from societal norms or align with progressive causes. Glenn publicly came out as pansexual in 2021 and has since become a visible advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the often-conservative world of figure skating and sports more broadly. Her openness has resonated with many, but it has also made her a target for hateful rhetoric and, now, direct threats.

A Pattern of Abuse: Athletes and Advocacy

The context of Glenn's situation is crucial. In the past few years, there's been a marked increase in athletes using their visibility to speak out on issues like racial justice, gender equality, and LGBTQ+ rights. While this increased activism is widely celebrated, it has also coincided with a rise in coordinated online harassment campaigns. These campaigns often involve doxxing (revealing personal information), threats of violence, and sustained campaigns of misinformation designed to discredit the athlete and silence their voice.

Several prominent athletes across various sports have spoken out about experiencing similar abuse. Simone Biles, during and after the Tokyo Olympics, faced backlash for prioritizing her mental health, illustrating how even discussions surrounding well-being can become politicized and attract negativity. Megan Rapinoe, a vocal advocate for equal pay and LGBTQ+ rights, has been a consistent target of online vitriol for years. Naomi Osaka, after withdrawing from competitions to focus on her mental health, also endured significant online abuse.

These incidents demonstrate that simply being an athlete who supports progressive causes is often enough to trigger harassment. The abuse isn't necessarily about the specifics of their arguments, but rather about silencing their voices and sending a message to other athletes who might consider speaking out.

The Role of Social Media Platforms

The very platforms that allow athletes to connect with fans and build their brands are also the breeding grounds for much of this abuse. While social media companies have policies against hate speech and harassment, enforcement is often inconsistent and reactive, rather than proactive. Critics argue that platforms prioritize engagement and profit over the safety and well-being of their users, and that algorithms can even amplify hateful content.

Recent investigations by organizations like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have revealed sophisticated networks of trolls and bots specifically designed to target athletes and other public figures with coordinated harassment campaigns. These networks often operate with impunity, exploiting loopholes in platform policies and using fake accounts to evade detection.

What Needs to Be Done?

The situation demands a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, social media platforms must take greater responsibility for protecting their users. This includes investing in better moderation tools, strengthening enforcement of existing policies, and proactively identifying and dismantling networks of harassment. Secondly, governing bodies like the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and national sports organizations need to develop clear policies and protocols for addressing athlete harassment, providing support for victims, and holding perpetrators accountable.

Beyond that, there's a need for broader societal change. Reducing polarization, promoting media literacy, and fostering a culture of respect and empathy are all crucial steps in combating online hate. Education about LGBTQ+ issues and mental health can also help to dismantle harmful stereotypes and biases.

Amber Glenn's decision to step away from social media is a heartbreaking reminder of the personal cost of advocacy. It's a loss for her fans, who enjoy her skating and appreciate her voice, but it's also a wake-up call for the sports community and society as a whole. Protecting athletes' safety and well-being, and fostering an environment where they feel empowered to speak their minds without fear of retribution, is not just a matter of fairness - it's essential for the future of sport and the values it represents.