The United States and Canada have jointly urged the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to permit the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to participate in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. They are advocating for the Haudenosaunee, an Indigenous confederacy from North America, to compete in lacrosse under their own flag.
Lacrosse, a sport with deep roots in Haudenosaunee culture, has been confirmed by the IOC as part of the medal events for the 2028 Summer Olympics. The Haudenosaunee invented lacrosse nearly a millennium ago and view it as an integral aspect of their cultural heritage.
Typically, Olympic participation is limited to recognized nations. However, due to the historical significance of lacrosse to the Haudenosaunee and their consistent presence in international competitions over decades, there is a call for an exception allowing them to field their own team.
The statement from both countries highlights respect for "the IOC’s independence" but emphasizes that this decision could showcase a commitment to "respecting and valuing indigenous cultural heritage." It further notes that allowing participation would align with "the highest values of the Olympic Games."
