10 Petitions Shaping the Olympic and Paralympic Games

As the dust settles from the exhilarating Paris Olympics, we find ourselves on the cusp of yet another global celebration of athletic prowess—the Paralympics. 

The Olympics have long been a stage where the world comes together to witness not just the pinnacle of human physical achievement but also the power of resilience, unity, and advocacy. The Paralympics, with its emphasis on overcoming adversity, amplifies these themes, showcasing the indomitable spirit of athletes with disabilities. Yet, as much as these Games inspire, they also highlight critical issues that extend beyond the sports arena—issues of fairness, justice, inclusion, and ethical responsibility.

On Change.org, these conversations take on new life as passionate individuals and communities rally to make their voices heard. Through petitions, they advocate for changes that reflect the true spirit of the Games, pushing for justice where it’s been denied and inclusion where it’s been lacking. Here, we explore 10 powerful petitions that capture the essence of these global movements, grouped by theme to better understand the challenges and aspirations they represent.

Advocating for Fairness and Justice in the Olympics

Petition: Disqualify Convicted Child Rapist Steven Van de Velde from the Olympics

In a world where athletes are often seen as role models, Lauren believes it’s essential that those representing their countries on the world stage exemplify the highest standards of conduct. This petition called for the disqualification of Steven Van de Velde, a convicted child rapist, from participating in the Olympics. 

In her petition, Lauren writes that allowing someone with such a history to compete not only tarnishes the integrity of the Games but also sends a deeply troubling message about accountability. She argues that the Olympics should be a platform for celebrating not just athleticism but also moral integrity and that disqualifying Van de Velde is a necessary step in upholding these values. More than 130,000 signed her petition. 

Petition: Justice for Jordan Chiles

Olympic gymnastics has always been a sport where precision and performance are judged to the finest detail. However, when those judgments are perceived as unfair, they can cast a shadow over the athletes’ achievements. This petition supports Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles, who became the central focus of a controversial scoring decision during the Games. 

Momo argues that the scoring system was biased and that Chiles was unfairly judged, potentially costing her a rightful place on the podium. The petition calls for a thorough review of the scoring process to ensure that all gymnasts are evaluated fairly and that the integrity of the sport is maintained. The petition has over 24,000 supporters.  

Petition: Stand with Olympian Imane Khelif Against Unjust Treatment

Imane Khelif, an Olympian from Algeria, has faced significant challenges both on and off the field, including what her supporters describe as unjust treatment by officials. Issues of discrimination and inequality have plagued her Olympic journey, raising concerns about the broader treatment of athletes from underrepresented regions and backgrounds. 

This petition urges the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to take a stand against such injustices by investigating Khelif’s case and ensuring that all athletes, regardless of their nationality or background, are treated equitably. Adele’s petition is a call to action for the IOC to uphold the Olympic values of respect, equality, and fair play. More than 25,000 people have signed. 

Protecting the Integrity of Sports and Athletes’ Rights

Petition: Preserve the True FBA Origins of Breakdancing and Hip-Hop Culture in the Olympics

The inclusion of breakdancing in the Olympics is seen as a significant step forward in recognizing the diversity of athletic expression. However, Mike believes this recognition comes with a responsibility to preserve the cultural roots of the sport. This petition seeks to ensure that the true origins of breakdancing, deeply rooted in the Federated Breakin’ Association (FBA) and hip-hop culture, are honored and respected within the Olympic framework. 

Mike’s petition emphasizes that as breakdancing gains global recognition, it’s crucial to maintain its authenticity and cultural significance rather than allowing it to be co-opted or diluted by commercial interests. This petition is a powerful reminder that the Olympics should be a platform for celebrating not just physical excellence but also cultural heritage. 

Petition: Maintain Breakdancing as an Olympic Sport for 2028 and Include Pointe and Ballroom

The cultural conversation around dance in the Olympics doesn’t stop at breakdancing. Another petition advocates for the continued inclusion of breakdancing in the 2028 Olympics, while also calling for the addition of other dance forms like pointe (ballet) and ballroom dancing. 

Adel’s argument is that these dance forms, much like breakdancing, combine artistry with athleticism and deserve a place on the Olympic stage. Supporters believe including these disciplines would broaden the scope of the Olympics and enhance its appeal by showcasing a wider variety of cultural expressions and physical feats.

Fighting for Inclusion and Representation

Petition: #LetThemRide: Support Gazan Paracyclists to Represent Palestine at the Paralympics

The Paralympics are a testament to the idea that sports can transcend boundaries, bringing together athletes of various abilities and backgrounds to compete equally. Yet, for athletes from regions facing geopolitical challenges, the road to the Paralympics can be fraught with obstacles. 

This petition advocates for the inclusion of Gazan paracyclists in the Paralympics. It highlights the importance of representation and the right for all athletes, regardless of their circumstances, to compete on the world stage. The petition isn’t just about sports.  It demonstrates the broader principle of ensuring every athlete has the opportunity to participate and represent their people, especially those from marginalized and conflict-affected regions. Nearly 40,000 people have signed the petition. 

Petition: The IOC Must Ban the Taliban and Include All Afghan Female Athletes into the Refugee Team

The situation for female athletes in Afghanistan has become increasingly dire under Taliban rule, with many being forced to abandon their sports careers due to oppressive policies. This petition calls for the IOC to take a firm stance by banning the Taliban from the Olympics and ensuring that Afghan female athletes are given the chance to compete as part of the Refugee Olympic Team. 

Friba’s petition is a powerful plea for the protection of women’s rights in sports, emphasizing that the Olympic movement must stand in solidarity with those who are denied the basic right to participate in sports due to political and cultural oppression. More than 12,000 people have signed. 

Addressing Ethical Concerns and Advocating for Animal Welfare

Petition: Remove Horses from the Olympics: End Abuse by Pro Riders

The use of animals in sports has always been a topic of ethical debate, and equestrian events at the Olympics are no exception. This petition highlights the ethical concerns surrounding the use of horses in Olympic sports, particularly in equestrian events, where the physical demands placed on horses can lead to significant harm and even abuse. 

Raleigh, the petition starter, argues that the Olympics should not condone practices that result in the suffering of animals. By calling for the removal of horses from Olympic competitions, this petition advocates for a more humane approach to sports that prioritizes the well-being of all lives involved. Nearly 35,000 have signed the petition. 

Ensuring the Future of Paralympic Sports

Petition: Save Paralympic Surfing LA 2028

As we look ahead to the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics, there’s a growing movement to include surfing as a Paralympic sport. This petition argues that surfing’s inclusion would not only diversify the Games but also promote the sport’s accessibility and popularity among athletes with disabilities. 

Josh believes that surfing’s unique combination of skill, balance, and connection with nature embodies the spirit of overcoming challenges, making it a perfect fit for the Paralympics. The petition is a call to action for the organizers of LA 2028 to embrace this sport and ensure that it becomes a permanent fixture in the Paralympic lineup. Almost 20,000 people have signed this petition. 

Using Change.org to Make a Difference

The Olympics and Paralympics are more than just sporting events—they are a reflection of our world, with all its triumphs, challenges, and complexities. As these petitions show, the Games can also be a powerful catalyst for change, inspiring people to speak out and demand a better, fairer world.

Change.org is a platform that empowers individuals and communities to make their voices heard on issues that matter to them. Whether you’re advocating for justice, fighting for inclusion, or demanding ethical standards, Change.org gives you the tools to rally support and drive real, impactful change. The petitions highlighted here are just a few examples of how ordinary people are using their voices to influence one of the world’s most prestigious events. By signing, sharing, or starting a petition, you too can contribute to the global conversation and help shape the future of sports—and beyond.