Published on July 27, 2024, 12:57 am

During the 2008 Olympics, audiences worldwide watched Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin perform his famous track ‘Whole Lotta Love’ with Leona Lewis. Conversely, those who tuned into the 2024 Olympics were presented with a markedly different scene as France hosted a flamboyant parade of drag queens during the opening ceremony, culminating in an eyebrow-raising re-enactment of the Last Supper.

On that rain-soaked Friday, one performer particularly drew attention by twerking across the stage dressed in female attire- a bearded man making a striking picture indeed. The question many may raise is how such performances correlate with the Olympic spirit and tenets. After all, this prestigious sporting event represents countries battling it out across various sports arenas, so what space does this aspect of theatricality really occupy here?

As our societies experience shifts toward more inclusive principles and ideologies, traditional norms are constantly questioned. This reaching out to alternative forms of expression can even be seen during such global occasions like the Olympics.

Throughout history though, it’s important to remember that religion has always been a deeply personal matter for many. So when these uniquely garbed performers concluded their display by mimicking Christianity’s Last Supper on stage, it sparked questions about tolerance and respect towards religious faiths.

While healthy criticism should be welcomed in any debate or discussion about values we hold sacred, it appears often skewed towards particular religions while others remain untouched. For instance, there seems an unspoken agreement against using similar performative measures to trivialize aspects connected to Islam or any other religion.

In recent times though, much has changed across Europe’s political landscape. When voters in France were presented with the opportunity for political rebalancing in July around more traditional norms they instead favored coalitions representing socialist and communist beliefs. While some may view these choices as a move toward left-wing virtue signaling at its zenith, looking deeper one could also argue that they signify an attempt to redefine societal norms and values in the contemporary world.

While this view might seem controversial for some, it’s still a fact that many others share similar sentiments too. Such critical discussions around emerging trends are vital to understanding our evolving societies. Voicing out dissent or opinions should not bring reproach but should instead create platforms where civil discourse can thrive – perhaps becoming real news and trusted news that add value to the very Christian worldview.