Megan Rapinoe (a forward for U.S Women's Soccer Team), hit back at Donald Trump's comments about women. Although the star seemed more upset than angry, she was clearly dissatisfied with the president. She had criticised Trump's comments that women were "woken" by his remarks and that they are "bad". He also said that women would perform poorly.
Rapinoe's feud with Trump
Megan Rapinoe has always been vocal in her criticisms of President Trump's administration. This latest tweet is no exception. Rapinoe was the first prominent athlete to kneel during a national anthem in 2016. She protested against police brutality and racial oppression of black people. Trump became furious at Rapinoe's comment.
Rapinoe declared herself a "walking protest" against former President Donald Trump in 2019, Rapinoe also refused permission to visit the White House following the World Cup win, citing "inequity." Although she later apologized, Rapinoe has remained outspoken about social justice issues and the Black Lives Matter Movement.
Rapinoe's criticism of Trump is much less strident than that directed at Kaepernick. Trump hasn’t asked Rapinoe not to leave the US, but Kaepernick has called Rapinoe anti-American. Both have come under fire, but the striking difference is between them. Rapinoe, a white woman, has been portrayed as unpatriotic.
Trump's criticisms about the women's team in soccer
Megan Rapinoe was a US women’s soccer player. She has come under fire by the Trump administration for several reasons. The 36-year old has earned a reputation for being a vocal social activist. She kneeled during the 2016 national anthem at an NWSL game. Rapinoe is a strong supporter for LGBT organizations and has a line of gender-neutral clothing. She was vocal in her criticism of Trump's policies and endorsed Senator Elizabeth Warren during 2020 Democratic primaries.
Women's soccer can be a powerful platform for social justice. Women's football has always been an avenue for people to express their beliefs, regardless of gender. By continuing to attack women's soccer players, Trump only proves his own illegitimacy. As long as women's soccer is played, it will continue to be a force for change in the world.
Rapinoe's support of Kaepernick
Although Meghan Rapinoe is not a household name her support for Colin Kaepernick caught many people off guard. The former American football star has stood with Kaepernick's cause since last year, when he kneeled during national anthem. Rapinoe is known for her actions, which have caused some ire in the Oval Office. Rapinoe is also vocal in her support of the LGBTQ community. She is a strong advocate to ensure equal pay for equal work.
Rapinoe's support to Kapernick is also notable for her own personal history. Despite the dangers, her family supported her protest. Although many condemned Rapinoe's actions, she remained determined to support her fellow athletes. She stood up for her beliefs and fought racism in the NBA.