As we celebrate this 4th of July, let us remember the principles of freedom, unity, and courage that define our great nation. Today, we not only celebrate the birth of American independence but also the enduring spirit of resilience and diversity that shapes us.
May we continue to strive for justice and equality in every sphere, from our sports fields to our community spaces, mirroring the inclusivity and determination that make our nation strong. Let us remember, the power of unity is the essence of our strength. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Independence Day! Let the spirit of freedom, peace, and unity prevail today and always. -Anita #4thofJuly #IndependenceDay #UnitedWeStand #Sports #IOC #OlympicGames #Olympics #USOPC #AnitaDeFrantz
0 Comments
A month ago, I had the privilege of attending the Pacific Council on International Policy's "Let the Games Begin" Gala in Los Angeles. It was an evening filled with insightful conversations and meaningful connections, and I continue to reflect on the important discussions had that night.
The Pacific Council's tireless efforts to foster international policy dialogue and promote global cooperation are truly commendable. Their work is instrumental in bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and promoting collaboration across borders. I'm grateful for the Council's continuous efforts to drive change on a global scale. Engaging in such events underscores the importance of international discourse and cooperation, both within and beyond the world of sports. I look forward to seeing the impact of the Pacific Council's work continue to unfold in the months and years ahead. #PacificCouncil #GlobalCooperation #LetTheGamesBeginGala #Sports #IOC #OlympicGames #Olympics #USOPC #AnitaDeFrantz Today, as we celebrate #Juneteenth, let us remember its significance in our nation's history. On this day in 1865, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom.
Juneteenth is a poignant reminder of our nation's journey towards freedom and equality. It symbolizes both the long, hard road endured by African Americans in the past and the progress still needed to achieve racial equity and justice. As we commemorate this day, let us honor the resilience and strength of those who fought tirelessly for freedom. And - let's recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of achieving true equality in every corner of our society, from the playing fields to the boardrooms and beyond. #Juneteenth2023 #FreedomDay #EqualityForAll #AnitaDeFrantz #USOPC #Olympics #OlympicGames #IOC #Sports On this Father's Day, I reflect on the vital role that fathers and father figures play in our lives. They guide us, support us, and inspire us. Their lessons shape us in ways both seen and unseen. Whether it's cheering us on from the sidelines of a sports event or guiding us through life's challenges, their presence is invaluable.
To all fathers, and to those who step into the role of fathers, your impact is immeasurable. Thank you for your strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. Happy Father's Day! -Anita #FathersDay #DadsOfTheWorld #AnitaDeFrantz #USOPC #Olympics #OlympicGames #IOC #Sports In honor of #PrideMonth, I want to celebrate the courageous LGBTQ+ athletes who have paved the way for equality and representation in sport, including the Olympics. Your achievements echo beyond the finish lines and scoreboards.
We remember the likes of Greg Louganis, a champion diver and an inspiration to us all. His courage to publicly share his journey as an openly gay, HIV-positive Olympian is nothing short of monumental. Let's also honor Megan Rapinoe, a tireless advocate for equality, whose skill on the soccer field is rivaled only by her advocacy off it. Megan, you have shown us that being an athlete means more than just winning medals; it means standing up for what you believe in. This month, we celebrate your victories, your strength, and your advocacy. We affirm that sport is a universal language that should unite us, irrespective of our sexual orientation or gender identity. Let's strive to create a world where every athlete can compete as a sports figure, role model, and inspiring influence, regardless of their individual persuasion. #PrideInSport #LGBTQ+ #PrideMonth #Olympics2023 Today, on Memorial Day, we reflect on the courageous sacrifices of our service men and women, who laid down their lives for our freedom. Their selflessness allows us the liberties we cherish, the freedom to dream, to excel, and to participate in the sports we love.
In their honor, I would like to highlight some inspiring figures who transitioned from military service to Olympic success, embodying the enduring spirit of our armed forces. Let us remember Louis Zamperini, a World War II veteran and former Olympian, who showcased the resilience and strength of our servicemen. His incredible journey from the 1936 Berlin Olympics to a prisoner-of-war camp embodies the indomitable spirit of an American hero. We also celebrate Melissa Stockwell, an Iraq War veteran, who became the first American woman to lose a limb in active combat. Her determination led her to become a world-class Paralympian and a symbol of resilience for us all. And of course, we salute David Robinson, a US Naval Academy graduate, who not only dominated the courts in the NBA but also represented us brilliantly on the Olympic stage. Today, we pay tribute to those who served, and to their families, who share in their sacrifice. Their valor remains our inspiration in every sphere of life. Let us carry their legacy forward, promoting peace and unity in all that we do. #MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember #VeteranOlympians As an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member and advocate for sport as a unifying force, I commend the G7's support for the autonomy of sports organizations. It's crucial to remember that athletes should not bear the weight of political disputes.
The IOC's guidelines were designed to uphold the integrity of international sports events while maintaining necessary sanctions against those responsible for the war. It's important to balance the right of athletes to compete with our responsibility to ensure fair and peaceful competition. Sport has always had the power to bridge divides and foster unity, and it's vital that we uphold this principle, even in challenging times. Let us strive to live up to the mission of international sport, allowing it to unite the people of the world, spanning across eclectic cultures, languages, and beliefs. If you're interested, please take a look at the full Q&A available here: https://olympics.com/ioc/news/q-a-on-solidarity-with-ukraine-sanctions-against-russia-and-belarus-and-the-status-of-athletes-from-these-countries - Anita #PeaceThroughSport #IOC #G7Support #AnitaDeFrantz #USOPC #Olympics #OlympicGames #IOC #Sports Celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month: Recognizing Exceptional Olympic Athletes4/30/2023 As we observe Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, it is an opportune time to acknowledge the exceptional accomplishments and contributions of some notable Asian-American Olympic athletes. Their dedication and skill have left a lasting impact on the world of sports.
🔹 Michelle Kwan, a figure skating legend, has earned five World Championships, nine U.S. National Championships, and two Olympic medals. 🔹 Apolo Ohno stands as the most decorated American Winter Olympian with eight medals in short track speed skating, including two golds. 🔹 Nathan Adrian has made his mark in swimming with eight Olympic medals, five of which are gold. 🔹 Kristi Yamaguchi achieved great success as the 1992 Olympic gold medalist in ladies' singles figure skating. 🔹 Chloe Kim showcased her fearlessness when she won the gold medal in the women's halfpipe event at the 2018 Winter Olympics. 🔹 Kyla Ross was a key member of the iconic "Fierce Five" U.S. women's gymnastics team that won gold in 2012. 🔹 Amy Chow proudly represented the "Magnificent Seven" U.S. women's gymnastics team that won gold in 1996. 🔹 Julie Chu, a trailblazer for the U.S. women's ice hockey team, holds four Olympic medals to her name. These extraordinary athletes have excelled in their respective disciplines and have paved the way for future generations of Asian-Pacific American athletes to pursue their dreams and attain greatness. As we celebrate their contributions, let us continue to support and uplift the voices of the Asian-American community. #AsianPacificHeritageMonth #Olympians #Inspiration #CelebratingDiversity It is with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of Herb Douglas, the oldest living U.S. Olympic medalist, who won bronze in the long jump at the 1948 Summer Games in London. Herb was an exceptional athlete, a trailblazer, and an inspiration to countless individuals.
Beyond his Olympic achievements, Herb was a champion for others, opening doors of opportunity and helping people pursue success. His remarkable life and legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and community leaders. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who were touched by his incredible spirit. Rest in peace, Herb. Your impact and contributions will never be forgotten. #HerbDouglas #Olympian #Legacy Link: https://www.foxnews.com/sports/herb-douglas-won-bronze-1948-olympic-games-dead-101 Upholding the Olympic Charter: Finding a Path Forward for Russian and Belarussian Athletes4/30/2023 As an Olympic medalist and International Olympic Committee member, I find the recent discussions around the IOC's recommendation to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete as neutrals both thought-provoking and concerning. While the Russian Olympic Committee's athletes' commission has deemed the proposal "excessive and discriminatory," others argue that it is too lenient.
It is important to recognize the complexity of the situation and to carefully consider all perspectives. We must strive to uphold the values of the Olympic Charter and ensure that the rights of all athletes are respected. The international sports community must come together to navigate these challenging times and make decisions that uphold the spirit of the Olympic Games. #Olympics #IOC #SportsDiplomacy Link: https://www.reuters.com/sports/russian-athletes-say-ioc-participation-plan-excessive-discriminatory-2023-04-30/ |
AuthorOfficial blog of author, athlete, and IOC official, Ms. Anita DeFrantz. Archives
February 2024
Categories |