Paris Olympics Ignites with Ancient Flame from Olympia Amid Global Turmoil

The spectacle of the Paris Olympics began with the lighting of the flame in ancient Olympia, Greece the birthplace of the Games. Despite weather conditions, the flame was ignited from a rehearsed flame symbolizing light and peace for all peoples. Olympic gold medalist Stefanos Douskos commenced the relay, spanning over 3,100 miles across Greece before the flame reaches Athens and sets sail for Marseille and Paris.

Amidst global conflicts, the ceremony emphasized the ancient Olympic spirit of truce and peace. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo emphasized the torch’s message of peace, especially poignant as the flame will pass significant sites in Paris including those affected by terrorism and war. The Paris Olympics promises gender equality with an equal number of male and female athletes as well as the inclusion of breakdancing reflecting urban culture and diversity.