UN Olympics LGBTQ Truce

Ahead of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea in February all 193 United Nations Member States adopted the Olympic Truce Resolution maintaining language protecting against discrimination based on sexual orientation. The Truce is negotiated every two years & promotes “civility among nations” during the Olympics. The truce goes into effect one week prior & one week following the games. This year a reference to Principle 6 which houses the non-discrimination clause that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation came under attack by Egypt & Russia. Thankfully their efforts failed. Jessica Stern, Executive Director of OutRight Action International stated, “While Egypt & Russia tried to export & sanction discrimination against lesbian, gay & bisexual Olympians, they failed. States decided to send a clear message that there is no place for discrimination at the Olympics. We're thankful for civil society & for the mobilization that took place to ensure that reference to Principle 6 stayed in the Truce. Today, we were victorious.” In a joint campaign by OutRight Action International & Athlete Ally professional athletes all around the world came out in support of the inclusion of Principle 6 releasing a letter calling on states to respect non-discrimination based on sexual orientation. Hudson Taylor, Founder & Executive Director of Athlete Ally added, “Today, we’re thankful for UN Member States around the world who stood up for universal values such as diversity, respect, inclusion & fair play. The decision to keep an explicit reference of Principle 6 within the Olympic Truce Resolution is an important step for the full dignity & protection of the LGBTQ community around the world. We thank the athletes who spoke out in the lead up to such an important vote.”
For More Info:outrightinternational.org
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