On the recordDecember 6, 2024
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, a momentous event that redefined what the Olympics could achieve and left a lasting legacy for our Nation and the world. The 1984 Games were groundbreaking, the first privately financed, and most financially successful in history. With 5.7 million tickets sold and events across 4,000 square miles of southern California, they captivated the world and showcased Los Angeles as a global leader. More than a display of athletic excellence, the 1984 Games ushered in a new era of innovation, technology, and inclusivity, while fostering international good will and reminding us that sport has the power to unite where politics may divide. From this success, the LA84 Foundation was born, ensuring that the legacy of the 1984 Olympics continues to benefit future generations. Over the past four decades, the foundation has supported millions of young people, built vital infrastructure, and led the national conversation on play, equity, and youth development. As we look ahead to the 2028 Olympics, Los Angeles will once again welcome the world, offering a unique opportunity to harness the soft power of sport to promote peace, strengthen global relationships, and inspire future generations. Let us build on this legacy as we prepare to unite the world once again in 2028. ____________________





