MILAN, Italy – The opening days of the Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina have been marked by athletic competition, but also by political undercurrents and calls for unity from American athletes. Amidst protests surrounding the presence of U.S. Vice President JD Vance and reports of animosity from Italian citizens, several American Olympians have spoken out about the importance of representing the United States with pride while also advocating for compassion and understanding.
The comments followed a recent attack on U.S. Freestyle skier Hunter Hess, prompting a wave of support from fellow athletes. Two-time Olympic halfpipe champion Chloe Kim, whose parents immigrated from South Korea, was particularly vocal, emphasizing the opportunities the U.S. Has afforded her family and the importance of standing up for one another.
“I personally am very proud to represent the United States,” Kim said. “I think diversity is what makes us a very strong country and what makes us so special. I don’t think there’s anywhere else in the world where you can really have the opportunity to do whatever you want. I mean, I think the four of us sitting here today are an example of that. We all came from very different backgrounds…and we all got to just chase our dreams and be here.”
Kim’s personal story underscores her point. As the daughter of Korean immigrants, her success on the world stage is a testament to the opportunities available in the United States. Her words resonate particularly strongly given the current political climate and the protests surrounding Vice President Vance’s attendance at the Games.
The sentiment was echoed by Kim, who added, “Obviously, my parents being immigrants, this one definitely hits pretty close to home and I think in moments like these, We see really important for us to unite and kind of stand up for one another, for all that’s going on.”
Kim didn’t shy away from directly addressing the need for a more compassionate approach. “I think that I’m really proud to represent the United States. The US has given my family and I so much opportunity, but I also think that we are allowed to voice our opinions on what’s going on and I think that we need to lead with love and compassion and I would love to see some more of that.”
The presence of Vice President Vance at the Games has clearly been a point of contention. Italian citizens have taken to the streets to protest his attendance, along with a contingent of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) agents. The animosity was palpable during the opening ceremony at the San Siro Stadium, where the crowd reportedly booed when Vance was shown on screen.
The protests highlight a growing tension between national pride and international relations, particularly concerning immigration policy. While the Olympics are intended to be a celebration of athletic achievement and global unity, they often become a backdrop for political statements and demonstrations.
The situation presents a complex challenge for the U.S. Olympic delegation. They are tasked with representing their country on the world stage while navigating a politically charged environment. Kim’s call for “love and compassion” suggests a desire to bridge divides and focus on the shared values of sportsmanship and international cooperation.
The Winter Olympic Games are being broadcast on the Nine Network, 9Now and Stan Sport, providing a platform for these stories to reach a global audience. As the Games progress, it remains to be seen how the political tensions will unfold and whether the athletes’ calls for unity will resonate with both the Italian public and the international community.
The events unfolding in Milan Cortina serve as a reminder that the Olympics are never solely about sport. They are a reflection of the world we live in, with all its complexities and contradictions. The athletes’ willingness to speak out on important issues demonstrates a growing awareness of their platform and a desire to use their voices for positive change.
Kim’s comments, in particular, offer a powerful message about the American dream and the importance of inclusivity. Her story, and the stories of other immigrant athletes, serve as a testament to the opportunities available in the United States and the value of diversity. As the Games continue, the focus will undoubtedly shift back to athletic competition, but the underlying political and social currents will remain, shaping the narrative and adding another layer of complexity to this international event.
