Caitlin Cahow of the United States celebrates her goal against Sweden during the second period of an ice hockey game at the 2010 Winter Olympics. Cahow, who is openly gay, has been selected for the US presidential delegation in Sochi. UPI/Brian Kersey |
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While President Barack Obama will not attend the Sochi Olympics, he has sent a message to Russia in those he has selected to go in his place.
The White House announced Tuesday tennis legend and LGBT activist Billie Jean King and openly gay hockey player Caitlin Cahow have been named to the official presidential delegation, headed by former Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano. The selection is thought to come in response to the controversy surrounding Russia's strict anti-gay laws including fines for "gay propaganda."
The White House did not reference the laws specifically, but pointed to "diversity, determination and teamwork" as what motivated the choice.
“It’s obviously a statement that’s being made, but I think it’s an incredibly respectful one,” Cahow said.
“Basically, the White House is highlighting Americans who know what it means to have freedoms and liberties under the Constitution. That’s really what we’re representing in Sochi and it’s not at all different from what’s espoused in the spirit of Olympism.
“So I think it’s just a great group of people. I can’t believe I’ve been named one of them because it’s a remarkable roster and I just think that we’re going to represent what the best America can be. Hopefully, it will unify all of Team USA and send a message of love and acceptance to the world.”
This is the first time since 2000 that the delegation will not include the president, vice-president or first lady. Even without those figures, the fact that Obama is sending a presidential delegation signifies that the US will not boycott the games in any way.
"In the selection of this delegation ... we are sending the message that the United States is a diverse place," said Jay Carney.
Rounding out the delegation are figure skating Brian Boitano, U.S. Ambassador to the Russian Federation Michael McFaul and Deputy Chief of Staff Robert Nabors. Speed skaters Bonnie Blair and Eric Heiden will join the delegation for the closing ceremony.
[Washington Post]
[NPR]