Athletes Voice Solidarity with Minnesota Amidst Olympic Preparations
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As the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics approach, several U.S. athletes are publicly expressing support for citizens in Minnesota, even as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) maintains strict guidelines against political statements. The growing unrest in Minnesota, stemming from actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), is prompting athletes too use their platforms to advocate for change and acknowledge the struggles unfolding back home.
Rising Concerns in Minnesota
Recent events in Minnesota have sparked widespread protests and condemnation following the deaths of two American citizens shot by ICE agents in Minneapolis last month. These incidents have fueled ongoing demonstrations across the United States, with Minnesota emerging as a focal point of resistance against the U.S. government and ICE’s increasingly frequent crackdowns.
Jesse Diggins, a cross-country skier and Minnesota native, shared her heartbreak on social media, stating, “what is happening in Minnesota right now, the news is really shocking and I am so heartbroken because I can’t do anything.” Diggins also expressed a desire to “give a little joy to the people back home” and “salute those who work hard to protect their neighbors.”
Similarly, Kelly Panek, a member of the U.S. women’s ice hockey team, also hailing from Minnesota, voiced her admiration for those actively protesting. “The people I’m most proud of are the thousands and thousands of people who stand up and fight on the coldest days of the year,” Panek said.
Expanding Athlete activism
The expressions of solidarity extend beyond Minnesota natives. Alyssa Liu, a California-based figure skater preparing for the women’s singles event, used social media to call on lawmakers to reject the budget bill for the Department of Homeland Security, the agency overseeing immigration policy.
This wave of athlete activism occurs as ICE is slated to provide security during the Winter Olympics in Italy, a move that has already triggered protests in Milan. The situation is further elaborate by recent revelations linking Casey Wasserman, chairman of the 2028 LA olympic Organizing Committee, to documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.
IOC President Kirsty Coventry acknowledged the challenges facing the upcoming games, stating, “It is unfortunate that the Olympic atmosphere is being tarnished (due to various issues).” Though, Coventry expressed confidence that the focus would shift to the “Olympic spirit” once the opening ceremony commences on February 7th.
Despite the IOC’s restrictions on overt political speech,it appears athletes are finding ways to express their personal opinions and demonstrate support for causes they believe in. This situation highlights the growing intersection of sports and social activism,and the challenges faced by international organizations in navigating these complex dynamics.
Why: U.S. athletes are expressing solidarity with citizens in Minnesota due to recent deaths of American citizens at the hands of ICE agents and subsequent protests.
Who: Key athletes involved include Jesse Diggins, Kelly Panek, and Alyssa Liu. The IOC, led by Kirsty Coventry, is also a central figure. ICE and Casey Wasserman are also involved.
What: Athletes are using their platforms to voice support for Minnesota protestors and advocate for changes in immigration policy, despite IOC restrictions on political statements.
