There has been much talk about soccer players taking a knee while the national anthem is being played. Protests have taken place in multiple places, including the one in Brazil. Despite the controversy, some players continue to play, and some have resorted to yarmulkas.
"Shameful" to kneel during the national anthem
Many people criticize NFL players for kneeling while they sing the national anthem. Some believe that kneeling is an insult to the American flag. Some others believe it's a sign of patriotism. No matter your opinion on kneeling, it is wrong.
Proponents argue that this is necessary to raise awareness about police violence against persons of color. While there are flaws to the movement, it is one of the most effective ways to express defiance against the government's ignorance. It raises awareness of the issue, exerts pressure on the US government and builds community solidarity.
Canadian soccer players join federation to discuss protest
Canadian soccer players are calling on the Canadian Federation to investigate recent reports of sexual abuse among its members. The team, which will play the Football Ferns of New Zealand in Ottawa, said they were "deeply disturbed" about the reports and wrote a letter to the top officials of the federation.
Canada Soccer has cancelled its friendly match against Iran in June, and has agreed to cancel an international match between Panama and Canada. The Panama match was cancelled because of a contract dispute, players claim. Canada Soccer has yet to take a final decision about the match. Players are waiting for the federation to resolve their concerns and resume training.
UEFA sanctions against Legia Warsaw players for wearing yarmulkas
UEFA has increased the penalties for teams that violate its rules regarding racial discrimination. The new rules come into effect on 1 June. On that day, Legia Warsaw will play against FC Steaua Bucuresti in the UEFA Champions League play-offs. After anti-Semitic chants by their supporters in a match against Borussia Borussia Dortmund, the Polish side was already banned.
The Yarmulka head scarf is worn by Muslim men. It is often embroidered in the national flag. This is a type of headcover that indicates the player's national football team as per FIFA rules. But, players can have more than one non FIFA country.
Brazil protests the World Cup
World Cup protests in Brazil are underway, with thousands of protesters taking to the streets in several cities. Protests have been focused on corruption, police brutality and the high cost stadiums. Protesters demand that the government spend the money on infrastructure and social projects.
Protesters claim that money raised from the World Cup should be used for basic public services. They are also demanding better education and medical services.
Protests to the United States Women's Anthem in Tokyo Olympics
The U.S. women’s soccer team knelt before the Olympic opening game in July. They were participating in a planned demonstration against racism, discrimination. Although they lost, some social media users made fun of the team for kneeling.
Many people were surprised by the timing of the Eugene anthem, which coincided with the track & 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.