Soccer protests have taken on many forms in recent years. Megan Rapinoe, who kneeled during the 2016 national anthem, started a movement that led to other protests against racism in sport and society. In February, the United States national team announced that players would no longer kneel during the anthem. In the United States, the team members stood for the anthem before a match against Sweden. The field participants took a knee.
Canada Soccer's inability to support soccer protests
Canada Soccer's lackluster support for the soccer protests prompted a variety of questions. What is Canada Soccer's position regarding transparency in its funding and recruitment? Does Canada Soccer want equal pay for its players? Is it prepared to pay equal compensation to male and female players
Taking the knee as a statement against racism
Many in soccer are questioning the significance of the recent controversy about taking the knee. Some have praised the movement, while others feel it is politically motivated. The UEFA and soccer federations have supported the protests, presumably because they want to portray soccer as a progressive, inclusive sport. However, it seems that the movement has become more about self-promotion than any real action against racism.
England: Taking the knee
The political storm has been sparked by a protest by English footballers. Conservative politicians have condemned the practice, arguing that it is a political statement. They also claim that it does not represent opposition to racism. Black Lives Matter supporters insist that the gesture is meant to be a way of supporting their cause. Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister, has stated that such gestures should be allowed provided people are free to express their opinions.
Hungary: Kneeling down
While some England players have taken to the ground to protest racial injustices during soccer games, supporters of Hungary's national team have refused to do this in their games. Some Hungarian supporters booed and booed the team. Although it is unclear why the players chose to protest in this manner, Hungarian fans responded strongly to the protest.
Colombians are taught to kneel
Colombian protestors are not the first to kneel. They have been calling attention to the lack of support they received from the national team, who are almost all Black. Instead of showing solidarity the players are posting anodyne messages to social media.
Taking the knee in FIFA 19
While the act of bending your knees is controversial in football, it is still a fundamental part of modern football. This move was regularly used in the Premier League and even featured at the Euros. FIFA should be aware of this trend and implement it in their game.