There has been much debate about soccer players kneeling during national anthem. Multiple protests have occurred, and protests in Brazil have caused quite a stir. Despite the controversy, some players continue to play, and some have resorted to yarmulkas.
"Shameful" is to take a knee during the national song.
Many have criticised NFL players for kneeling during national anthem. Some argue that kneeling during the national anthem is disrespectful of the American flag. Some say it is disrespectful of the American flag. Others claim that it shows patriotism. No matter your opinion on kneeling, it is wrong.
Proponents believe it is necessary for people of color to be aware of police violence. It is a way to defy the government and voice disapproval, despite its flaws. It draws attention to the issue, puts pressure on the US government, and helps build community solidarity.
Canadian soccer players meet with federation after protest
Canadian soccer players have asked the Canadian federation for an investigation into recent reports regarding sexual abuse of its members. The Canadian team will take on the Football Ferns of New Zealand Saturday in Ottawa.
Canada Soccer canceled a friendly match against Iran in June and agreed to cancel an international match with Panama. Players say the cancellation of the Panama match was caused by a contract dispute. Canada Soccer did not make a decision prior to the match, which frustrated the players. The players are waiting for the federation's response to their concerns before they can resume training.
UEFA sanctions Legia Warsaw's players for wearing yarmulkas
UEFA has imposed stricter sanctions on teams that abuse the rules against racial discrimination. The new rules take effect on the 1st of June. Legia Warsaw will be playing FC Steaua Bucuresti that day in the UEFA Champions League finals. After antisemitic chants from their supporters, the Polish side has been banned for racism.
The Yarmulka is a traditional head scarf worn by Muslim men. The flag of the national team is often embroided on it. This type of head covering indicates the player's national team, as defined by FIFA rules. However, a player may also hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.
World Cup protests in Brazil
Protests against the World Cup in Brazil are currently underway. In several cities, thousands of protestors took to the streets. The protests are focused on the high cost of stadiums, corruption, police brutality, and evictions. Protesters want the government to invest the money in infrastructure and social projects.
Protesters claim that the World Cup money should be spent on basic public service. They are also demanding better education and medical services.
Protests of women in the United States against the anthem at the Tokyo Olympics
The U.S. women’s soccer team knelt before the Olympic opening game in July. They participated in a planned protest against racism and discrimination. Although they lost, some social media users made fun of the team for kneeling.
Many noticed that the Eugene, Oregon protest song was being performed at the same time as the track and field podium ceremony. But it did stir up political debate about the right to free speech at the Olympic Games. There is no prohibition against certain types of protest, but some members of international community, including IOC, have expressed their disapproval.