Protests against soccer have taken many forms over the 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 2016, the United States national team stated that players would not be allowed to kneel during anthem. Prior to a game against Sweden the U.S. national team announced that players would no longer kneel during the anthem.
Canada Soccer's inability expressly to support soccer protests
Canada Soccer's lackluster support for the soccer protests prompted a variety of questions. For example, what's Canada Soccer's position on the need for greater transparency in the organization's funding and recruitment processes? Is it willing to pay equal wages for its players? Does it want equal compensation for men and women?
Take the knee to protest racism
Many in soccer are questioning the significance of the recent controversy about taking the knee. Some people have praised this movement while others believe it's politically motivated. The protests were supported by the UEFA and soccer federations, presumably because they wish to promote soccer as a progressive and inclusive sport. But, it seems like the movement has become more about self promotion than actual action against racism.
England: The kneeling position
Protests by English footballers have sparked a political storm. Conservative politicians attacked the practice, claiming that it was a political statement that does not show opposition to racism. But supporters of the Black Lives Matter movement say that it is a way of showing support. Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister, has stated that such gestures should be allowed provided people are free to express their opinions.
Hungary: Take the knee
England players have taken a knee to protest racial inequalities during soccer games. Supporters of the Hungarian team, however, have not done so. Some Hungarian supporters have also booed the team. It is not clear why the players have chosen to protest this way, but the Hungarian fans have shown a strong reaction to the protest.
Colombians are taught to kneel
Colombian protesters were not the only ones to take a knee. They raised concerns about the lack support they received from the Black national team. Instead of showing solidarity, they have been posting anodyne posts on social media.
FIFA 19: Kneeling
The kneeling position is a controversial one in football but is an essential part of modern football. This technique was popular in the Premier League, and it has been used at the Euros. FIFA should pay attention to this trend and incorporate it into their game.