The Olympic Games are meant to unite the world — not divide it. But right now, thousands of potential fans from across the globe are being shut out of the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles due to sweeping visa bans and costly new travel restrictions.

While President Trump has made exceptions for athletes and officials, ordinary fans — including family members, lifelong supporters, and aspiring young athletes — from over a dozen countries are still banned or severely restricted from entering the United States. Some visitors now face visa bonds of up to $15,000 just to attend the Games.

These policies fly in the face of what the Olympics stand for: global unity, cultural exchange, and peaceful celebration through sport. Denying access to fans based on where they’re from undermines everything the Olympic spirit is supposed to represent.

People from Haiti, Iran, Myanmar, Libya, Sudan, and many more countries are being told they can’t witness their teams compete — even though their athletes are being welcomed. How is that fair?

Local businesses in Los Angeles are preparing to welcome the world. U.S. tourism, which supports nearly 10 million jobs, is supported by Olympic attendance. But instead of opening our doors, we’re sending a message that certain people aren’t welcome here — not even for an event that’s supposed to bring us together.

We’re calling on the U.S. State Department and the White House to lift discriminatory visa restrictions for Olympic spectators and ensure all fans — regardless of nationality — have a fair chance to attend the 2028 Games.

If we’re going to host the world, let’s actually welcome it.

Sign this petition if you believe Olympic fans from all nations should be allowed to come together in Los Angeles.

Doug Mills/The New York Times