Andrés Forero criticises the representation of the last supper at the Olympic Games: “To demand respect there is no need to disrespect others”

Representative Andrés Forero questions the decision of the Olympic organizers, pointing out that the event should unite humanity instead of dividing it – credit Colprensa

As part of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, a group of drag queens presented an artistic work entitled ‘Party’. The performance depicted several people gathered around a table, an act they interpreted as a representation of the painting of the last supper.

According to the performers, the event was intended to highlight inclusion and diversity, values ​​that the organisers of Paris 2024 want to promote as a reflection of a modern society. However, for some believers, especially Catholics, the performance was seen as “disrespectful”.

Among these people is the representative to the House of Representatives of the Democratic Center, Andrés Forero, who through his X account questioned this action and also considered that it was an “offense” to the beliefs of several people around the world.

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In his post, Congressman Forero questioned the decision of the Olympic organizers to include a spectacle that, according to him, offended and disrespected the beliefs of millions of Christians in the world, stating that the Olympic Games should be a sporting celebration to unite humanity, not to divide it.

“What need did the organizers of the Olympics have to offend and disrespect the beliefs of millions of Christians in the world? The Olympics are a sporting event to unite humanity, not to divide it. To demand respect, there is no need to disrespect others,” commented the legislator belonging to the Seventh Commission of the House of Representatives on his X account.

Andrés Forero talks about the opening of the Olympic Games – credit @AForeroM

The performance provoked mixed opinions. On the one hand, members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies applauded the performance, considering it “a symbol of inclusion and diversity.” They argued that this performance challenged stereotypes and promoted a more open perception of society. In contrast, conservative and religious groups expressed their disapproval. For some, the show represented a “desecration” of a revered image and a crucial symbol for the Christian faith.

In this regard, the French Bishops’ Conference (CEF) issued a statement, joining the voices that have expressed their regret at the “scenes of ridicule and mockery of Christianity” that took place during the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympic Games. However, they also highlighted “moments of beauty, joy, rich in emotion and universally welcomed.”

The opening of Paris 2024 had a tribute to Parisian fashion – credit Claro Sports

In their statement, the French bishops recalled all Christians on various continents who were offended by the exaggeration and provocation of certain scenes. They said that “the Olympic celebration” should overcome “the prejudices of certain artists.”

According to French media outlet Sud Ouest, female activist and DJ Barbara Butch hosted the show and was the star of the show. During the performance, she stood center stage, wearing a bright blue dress and a crown. “My goal is to bring people together, to bring humans together and share love through music so that we all dance and make our hearts beat in unison. Music sounds better with all of us,” the DJ explained.

On the other hand, according to the video of the presentation, the group was seated at a table alongside several notable figures from the community. The performance was seen as an allusion to the Last Supper. Among the prominent figures were Nicky Doll, Paloma and Piche, who participated in the globally broadcast display, with the River Seine as a backdrop.

The event also included a catwalk show featuring several models, including Raya Martigny. Some of the outfits on display were designed and made by emerging young fashion talents, such as Vincent Frederic-Colombo, Alphonse Maitrepierre and Gilles Ascii.

According to French media reports, the parade and presentation took place on a metal suspension bridge associated with the work of Gustave Eiffel. The background song was ‘Stardust o je danse le mia’, composed by DJ Barbara Butch.

Smoke in the colors of the French flag rises as the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics begins, Friday, July 26, 2024 – credit Matthias Schrader/ AP