Peter Vidmar, 1984 Olympic Gold medalist in gymnastics has been named the Chef de Mission for the USA to the London Olympics in 2012.
Link: http://www.prlog.org/11465163-vidmar-named-us-olympic-teams-2012-chef-de-mission.htmlThe BIG problem: he actively campaigned for Prop 8, donated, and although this shouldn't matter, he's a Mormon. Why does it matter? The Mormon Church funneled millions into California to help Prop 8 pass.
As a former gymnast and openly gay man, I find this completely unacceptable and appalling.
The Chef de Mission is basically the diplomatic representative of the entire US Olympic delegation. He vocally supported Prop 8! Do you think as a country, we deserve this person speaking on behalf of our athletes and country to the world? I THINK NOT. Especially since England ALLOWS same-sex marriage! Oh, and London is touting this as the most inclusive Olympic Games ever.
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Here's a link to an article highlighting Vidmar's campaigning for Prop 8:
Link: http://articles.ocregister.com/2008-10-30/cities/24725552_1_demonstrators-rancho-santa-margarita-intersection------------------------
And here's a link showing his $2,000 donation for Prop 8:
Link: http://projects.latimes.com/prop8/results/?position=Support&name=Peter+Vidmar&employer=&amount_min=&amount_max=&city=&state=&zip=&search=Search------------------------
Shame on the United States Olympic Committee (USOC). If you'd like to drop them a note voicing your displeasure, do so here:
Email the USOC: media@usoc.org
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I'd like to see him replaced with someone who represents the Olympic Spirit, acceptance, tolerance, celebrates diversity, and isn't a bigot.
Thanks for reading,
Matt