The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony has sparked widespread criticism and denouncement from lawmakers both in the United States and around the world. The inclusion of drag queens and artists in a spectacle that involved the Leonardo DaVinci painting, the Last Supper, has deeply offended many Christian individuals. The event, meant to celebrate the spirit of the Olympics, has become embroiled in a debate regarding freedom of expression versus respect for religious beliefs.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., expressed his astonishment and disappointment at the opening ceremony, stating that it was both shocking and insulting to Christian people worldwide. He emphasized that such acts further demonstrate the ongoing battle against faith and traditional values. Referring to the Bible verse John 1:15, Johnson highlighted the enduring power of truth and virtue.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., also voiced her opposition to the opening ceremony and criticized those responsible for its execution. She claimed that the French Olympic Committee had taken down videos of the ceremony, citing copyright laws. Greene argued that the First Amendment protected the right to share these videos and emphasized the anti-Christian undertones of the ceremony.
Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini expressed his disapproval of the opening ceremony by sharing an image comparing the drag queens to the Last Supper. He denounced the act as insulting to billions of Christians worldwide, calling it a regrettable start to the Olympic Games. Salvini’s criticism emphasized the perceived lack of sensitivity and tact shown by event organizers.
Eduard Habsburg, Hungary’s ambassador to the Vatican, made a historical reference, sarcastically stating that “decapitating Habsburgs and ridiculing central Christian events” were the first things that came to mind when thinking of the Olympic Games. This tongue-in-cheek comment highlights the ambassador’s incredulity towards the divergence of focus in the ceremony.
Piers Morgan, a prominent media personality and host of Fox Nation, shared his confusion regarding the opening ceremony on social media. Posting an image of the drag queens lined up along a table, he questioned the motives and intentions behind the controversial display.
The 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony has ignited a fire of controversy, particularly within the Christian community. Lawmakers and public figures from various countries have expressed their dismay at the inclusion of drag queens and artists in a performance involving the Last Supper painting. The clash between freedom of expression and respect for religious beliefs has once again come to the forefront, highlighting the complexities of organizing a globally inclusive event while avoiding offense. As the games go on, it remains to be seen whether this incident will have a lasting impact or serve as a catalyst for further discussions on cultural sensitivities and religious tolerance.