Mikaela Shiffrin’s Values at the Olympic Games
Olympic champion skier Mikaela Shiffrin is eager to showcase her “values” at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics. She expressed, “There’s a lot of hardship and heartbreak in the world. Violence, too. It can be tough to process all this while you’re trying to win medals.” Her statement came during a media session in Italy on Saturday.
In her detailed response, Shiffrin shared a quote from Nelson Mandela that resonated with many at the event. She noted, “‘Peace is not just the absence of conflict. It’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive, irrespective of race, color, creed, religion, gender, class, or any other distinction.'” She read this aloud from her phone.
Shiffrin went on to say, “As it pertains to the Olympics, I truly want to embody and convey my values: inclusivity, diversity, kindness, and tenacity. I hope to show the importance of teamwork. I want to honor those who have supported me throughout my journey.”
She concluded, “I’m thankful to be participating and, from a broader viewpoint, my greatest hope is that this Olympics serves as a celebration of both cooperation and competition.”
Her remarks came just before some American athletes were questioned about their feelings on representing the U.S. at the Australian Open, particularly in relation to President Trump’s second term.
Last week, protests against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) erupted in Milan after the announcement that ICE agents would be present at the Olympics.
A U.S. embassy official mentioned that ICE would support diplomatic efforts but would not share security specifics, ensuring that immigration operations would be discreet during the event.
Milan’s Mayor, Giuseppe Sala, declared that ICE was not welcome in the city, referencing disturbing images of undercover agents from Minneapolis.
He stated, “This is a paramilitary organization that harms people and invades homes. It is evident that they are not wanted in Milan.” His comments came before more details about ICE’s involvement in security were revealed.
