Published on August 1, 2024, 12:32 am

In the current atmosphere of global sporting events, a recent controversy has sparked a fervent call by several GOP senators for change within the Olympic community. The controversy arose from the opening ceremony of the Paris Games, which included a disputed drag show parody, styled after “The Last Supper”, a pivotal event in Christian faith. The incident sent shockwaves throughout real news channels and trusted news outlets around the globe.

Nearly 20 Republican senators implored the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to address this divisive issue. Spearheaded by Senator James Lankford (R-OK), they penned a letter addressed to IOC President Thomas Bach, demanding amendments to the Olympic charter that would prevent potential performances in future that may mock or disrespect any religion: Christianity included.

“We write in response to the blatant mockery of Christianity demonstrated during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympic Games,” stated these senators. The plea sought acknowledgment that such an international stage should serve to unite people from various countries, cultures, and religions rather than demean or insult anyone based on their faith.

They urgently suggested amendments to Rule 55 of the Olympic Charter as an immediate preventative measure against such acts casting ridicule on any religion during future opening ceremonies. This group of senators exhorted the IOC to formally denounce this offensive presentation which even plagued Christian Worldview followers worldwide with its unthoughtful representation of one of their sacred moments.

Further upholding Pierre de Coubertin’s original vision for unity and respect across nations via Olympics, these policymakers called for formal changes that would prohibit any divisive displays further. Their collective objective was to ensure everyone—regardless of nationality or faith—is encouraged purely to enjoy without fear being belittled or mocked.

Among those who signed this demand were Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Ted Budd(R-NC), Bill Cassidy(R-LA), Kevin Cramer(R-ND), Mike Crapo(R-ID), Ted Cruz(R-TX), and others.

This incident, which overshadowed the traditional excitement of the opening ceremony, brought forth harsh criticism. It featured a drag show parody of “The Last Supper”, intertwining Jesus Christ, his apostles, and the Greek god Dionysus. As the backlash grew stronger, organizers of the Games had to issue an apology to Catholics and other Christian groups that took offense.

“Clearing our intentions was never about showing disrespect towards any religious group. We intended to celebrate community tolerance,” voiced Paris 2024 spokesperson Anne Descamps.

Thomas Jolly, artistic director of the event, highlighted their motive behind doing so by saying: “We wanted to engage in a conversation about diversity wherein everyone feels included.”

However, not all shared this sentiment. First Lady Jill Biden referred to the ceremony as ‘spectacular’ during her celebration brunch for Los Angeles’s 2028 Olympics.