Is Sports an ambassador for peace? By rita Basile, Volume 8, Issue 43

The Olympics have always been considered a way for nations to come together in a peaceful way through competition and sportsmanship. According to the author there were not many defined moments in this year’s Olympics. The only defined moment as expressed by the author was the $25,000 that was given by Joey Cheek to Johann Olav Koss’ organization to create a healthier and safer world for children. This act of generosity inspired others to donate to this same organization; those who believe that sports can be an effective treatment for at least some of the world’s problems.
Jim Cain, the U.S. ambassador to Denmark, “believes that a sports team could bind a community and inspires its youth; spread American culture, decency and fair play.” Along with Cain, President Bush believes this too. Cain said, “The President asked me to use my experience and relationships in sports and entertainment to come up with ways to expand the State Department’s sports diplomacy initiatives.” Cain feels that the two channels to reach out to young people are through sports and music. These are two things that Americans do well at.
Many skeptics do not believe that sports will make a difference. As noted by the author the countries that were underrepresented at the Olympics were those that are in conflict. Do we think that terrorist will hand over their arms for a chance to participate at the Olympics? This is highly unlikely; how about all the talk throughout the years of steroid use, blood doping, attacks on other athletes, and collusion by judges. We talk fair play and decency but does this exist at the Olympics and will sports have an affect on peace in the world? I am very skeptic about this happening. The Olympics are not going to solve world peace but I do believe in the statement that is found on the Olympic website: “Over and above sporting exploits, Olympism is a source of multiple passions which unite the worlds of sport, art, culture and collections.” I believe the Olympics are a time to share passions and to touch the lives of others which can lead to a sense of peace and togetherness for a short period of time, but not for long lasting peace.