U.S. Athletes Address Domestic Issues Amid Milan Cortina Winter Olympics
During the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, American athletes sparked widespread discussion by addressing various domestic issues, including federal immigration enforcement policies and LGBTQ+ rights. Their comments prompted responses from public figures and online communities, highlighting a complex interplay between national representation and personal convictions. While some athletes expressed mixed emotions about wearing the flag, others maintained a sharp focus on the competition. The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) also confirmed an increase in online threats targeting athletes, underscoring the intensity of these discussions. Vice President JD Vance had initially commented on the games' unifying potential as they commenced.
Athletes Speak Out on Domestic Concerns
American athletes, including several from Minnesota, voiced strong opinions on federal immigration enforcement tactics. Cross-country skier Jessie Diggins, a three-time Olympic medalist, posted a statement online articulating her values.
"I race for an American people who stand for love, for acceptance, for compassion, honesty and respect for others," and "I do not stand for hate or violence or discrimination."
Team USA hockey player Kelly Pannek, with teammate Taylor Heise present, described aggressive immigration enforcement as "unnecessary and horrifying" following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by Customs and Border Protection agents. Snowboarders Stacy Gaskill and Bea Kim also weighed in, with Kim emphasizing the broader significance of the games.
"The Olympics are more than just sport. They represent global unity and peace," and "Diversity is what makes the United States so special."
Three-time Olympic gold medalist Breanna Stewart displayed a sign reading "Abolish ICE" and commented, "I think that when human lives are at stake, it's bigger than anything else."
Freestyle skier Hunter Hess stated he had "mixed emotions" about representing the U.S., noting he was not a "fan of current policies" and that wearing the flag did not mean endorsing all U.S. actions. Other skiers, Alex Ferreira and Svea Irving, also offered perspectives. Ferreira called for global and domestic peace, stating the Olympics represent peace, while Irving mentioned a challenging time in the country and emphasized her values of compassion, love, and respect for others. Freestyle skier Chris Lillis expressed heartbreak over U.S. events and hoped athletes represented values of love and respect. Skiing star Mikaela Shiffrin quoted Nelson Mandela, aiming to represent values of inclusivity, diversity, kindness, and tenacity.
Figure skater Amber Glenn, a prominent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, made statements about challenges faced by her community, specifically noting difficulties for queer individuals. Following her comments, Glenn reported receiving a significant amount of hate and threats on social media, which prompted her to step back from public platforms.
Political and Public Reactions
Hunter Hess's comments garnered significant attention, prompting responses from political figures. Former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, criticizing Hess and suggesting he should not have joined the Olympic team, calling him a "real loser."
"Very hard to root for someone like this."
This direct criticism from a former U.S. president towards an American Olympian was noted as a departure from typical White House Olympic messaging. Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL) also posted on X, stating that Hess chose to wear the flag and represent the country.
In response, other prominent athletes defended Hess. Two-time Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim emphasized the importance of athletes uniting and supporting one another. Eileen Gu, who competes for China, expressed sympathy for Hess and confirmed she had been in contact with him.
The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) issued a statement condemning threats against athletes. The committee confirmed that credible threats are reported to law enforcement and noted an increase in abusive messages directed at athletes during recent games.
Diverse Perspectives Among Athletes
While many athletes addressed domestic issues, others chose a different approach. U.S. speedskater Casey Dawson stated that "politics don't apply to us" at the Games, emphasizing their focus on competition. Skier Nick Goepper stated his intention to uphold American values such as respect, opportunity, freedom, and equality. Some other U.S. Olympic athletes focused solely on the sporting competition or expressed pride in representing the U.S.
Renaming of Olympic Hospitality Space
In Milan, a hospitality space intended for friends and family of Team USA athletes, originally named the "Ice House," was renamed the "Winter House." U.S. Figure Skating, USA Hockey, and US Speed Skating, the governing bodies operating the space, issued a statement indicating the new name better reflects its intent as a private area for celebration during the Winter Games.
Broader Context of Olympic Activism
The Olympic Games frequently serve as a platform for political and cultural discussions, echoing past events such as the 1968 protests. The recent athlete comments coincide with renewed debate over U.S. immigration measures following events in Minneapolis. Anti-ICE and anti-Trump protests were also reported in Italian cities, indicating a global dimension to these domestic concerns.