http://www.policymic.com/articles/79271/unbelievable-here-s-what-an-olympic-official-said-about-the-gay-u-s-athletes
“It’s absurd that a country like [the United States] sends four lesbians to Russia just to demonstrate that in their country gay rights have [been established] … The games should not be an occasion and a stage to promote rights that sports support daily.”That’s what an Italian member of the International Olympic Committee said Wednesday, January 14, about the United States delegation to the Sochi Winter Olympic games. Mario Pescante, who is head of the IOC’s International Relations Committee, doesn’t believe the Olympics are any time for politics.It’s “absurd” for the U.S. to send a message to Russia that it strongly believes in basic human rights for all people. Right.The backstory: LGBT rights are a big deal at the Olympics this year precisely because it seems that Russia doesn’t believe in basic rights for everyone. The U.S. wants to make it clear that it does, and that its vehemently against Russia’s anti-LGBT legislation and propaganda.So the U.S. appointed an Olympics delegation featuring two prominent gay athletes: tennis legend Billie Jean King and Olympic medalist Caitlin Cahow. Short of actually boycotting the Olympics – which some argue we should – the U.S. is being as clear as it can in taking a stand against Russia’s archaic laws.But for Pescante, the Olympics aren’t a place for political protest. “It’s enough already,” he said of countries using the Olympic stage to stand up for a cause.
but aren't Russia and this bigot sending a message as well it is just as well known that Russia is a homophobic country, and this guy well he just declared his prejudice to the world but aren't we at least half as bigoted as they?
Pres. sent them to make a statement but the world has seen the fights and right wing obstruction in getting rights for gays Pres. pushed that as well.But an international stage being watching by millions of people worldwide is exactly the time and place to send a message. If the U.S. wants to come out strongly in support for LGBT rights, then the Olympics is a perfect opportunity.Pescante, of course, isn’t sympathizing with Russia’s laws. He “just wanted to make the point not to let politics interfere with the Olympics.”
i think he is by denying those sent to represent us he is ok'ing Putin"s denial of LGBT, and that same stage knows of his rejection and that had Pres. not turned up the heat along with others there would be no Gays in participation or attendance if left to Putin. pot kettle syndrome it's a global affliction,.
