The United States Olympic Committee has released a statement concerning Donald Trump's new executive order regarding immigration. According to the USOC, the government will ensure that athletes and officials from other nations will be permitted to visit the U.S. in order to compete in an athletic competition.
“We have received a number of inquiries about the executive order regarding immigration that was issued by President Trump on Friday. Like the United States, the Olympic Movement was founded based upon notions of diversity and inclusion, of opportunity and overcoming adversity. As the steward of the Olympic Movement in the United States, we embrace those values. We also acknowledge the difficult task of providing for the safety and security of a nation. It is our sincere hope that the executive order as implemented will appropriately recognize the values on which our nation, as well as the Olympic Movement, were founded.
“We have been specifically asked about the impact that the executive order could have on athletes and officials coming to the United States to compete. Recognizing the extraordinary power of international sport to bring people together in a peaceful celebration of friendship, excellence and respect, the U.S. government has today advised us that it will work with us to ensure that athletes and officials from all countries will have expedited access to the United States in order to participate in international athletic competitions.
“We appreciate your support and patience.”
This, obviously, is good news. Athletic events should remain apolitical and innocent athletes should not be denied the chance to compete. The U.S. is one of the countries bidding to host the 2024 games.