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 of these players continue to play while others have taken to the streets to protest.
"Shameful" is to take a knee during the national song.
Many people criticize NFL players for kneeling while they sing the national anthem. Some argue that kneeling during the national anthem is disrespectful of the American flag. Others argue that kneeling is disrespectful to the flag. No matter what your stance is on kneeling it's wrong.
Proponents believe it is necessary for people of color to be aware of police violence. The movement has its flaws but it is the best way to protest government ignorance and defiance. It raises awareness of the issue, exerts pressure on the US government and builds community solidarity.
After protest, Canadian soccer players meet with the federation
A group of Canadian soccer players have called on the Canadian federation to investigate recent reports about sexual abuse among its members. The Canadian soccer team will be facing the Football Ferns of New Zealand at Ottawa on Saturday. They are "deeply disturbed by these recent reports" and have written to senior officials of the federation.
Canada Soccer cancelled a friendly match against Iran and agreed to cancel an International match with Panama. 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 still waiting for Canada Soccer's decision to resolve their issues and resume training.
UEFA sanctions Legia Warsaw Players for Wearing Yarmulkas
UEFA has instituted stricter sanctions against teams that abuse its rules on racial disparity. These new rules will be in effect from 1 June. On that day, Legia Warsaw will play against FC Steaua Bucuresti in the UEFA Champions League play-offs. The Polish side has already been banned for racism after their supporters chanted anti-Semitic chants during a game against Borussia Dortmund.
A traditional head scarf worn by Muslim males, the Yarmulka. The national team flag is often embroided on the Yarmulka. This headcover is used to identify the national team of the player, as per FIFA rules. A player can also have more than one non FIFA nationality.
Brazil protests the World Cup
Protests are ongoing in Brazil over the World Cup. Thousands of people have taken to the streets in many cities. Protests focus on high costs of stadiums, corruption and police brutality as well as evictions. Protesters have asked the government for the money to be spent on infrastructure and social programs.
Protesters argue that the World Cup money will be better used to fund basic public services. They demand improved 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. Even though they lost the game to the other team, some social-media users mocked them for kneeling.
Many noticed that the Eugene, Oregon protest song was being performed at the same time as the track and field podium ceremony. It did spark political debate over the right to free speech at Olympic Games. While there is no rule prohibiting a certain form of protest, some members of the international community, including the IOC, have been vocal in their opposition to the protests.