There has been much debate about soccer players kneeling during national anthem. There have been multiple protests, and the protests in Brazil have caused a stir. Despite the controversy, some players continue to play, and some have resorted to yarmulkas.
"Shameful" to kneel during the national anthem
Many have criticised NFL players for kneeling during national anthem. Some argue that kneeling during the national anthem is disrespectful of the American flag. Some say it is disrespectful of the American flag. Others claim that it shows patriotism. Whatever your stance on kneeling, it's 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 draws attention to the issue and puts pressure on US government.
Canadian soccer players meet federation following protest
Canadian soccer players called for the Canadian Federation to investigate recent allegations of sexual abuse within its ranks. The Canadian team will take on the Football Ferns of New Zealand Saturday in Ottawa.
Canada Soccer cancelled a friendly match against Iran and agreed to cancel an International match with Panama. Players claim that the Panama match was cancelled due to a contract dispute. The players are frustrated that Canada Soccer didn't make a final decision before the match. The players are still waiting for Canada Soccer to address their concerns so they can resume training.
UEFA sanctions Legia Warsaw's players for wearing yarmulkas
UEFA has introduced tougher sanctions for teams who abuse the rules of the game on racial discrimination. The new rules come into effect on 1 June. Legia Warsaw is scheduled to play FC Steaua Bucuresti in UEFA Champions League playoffs on the same day. After antisemitic chants from their supporters, the Polish side has been banned for racism.
The Yarmulka is a traditional head scarf worn by Muslim men. It is often embroidered in the national flag. This is the type of headcover that identifies the player's national soccer team according to FIFA rules. A player may have more than 1 non-FIFA country.
Brazil protests World Cup
Protests against the World Cup in Brazil are currently underway. In several cities, thousands of protestors took to the streets. Protests have been focused on corruption, police brutality and the high cost stadiums. Protesters call on the government not to spend the money on stadiums, corruption, police brutality and evictions but on social projects as well as infrastructure.
Protesters argue that the World Cup money will be better used to fund basic public services. Protesters also demand better education and health services.
Protests by women from the United States during the Tokyo Olympics
In July, the U.S. women's soccer team took a knee before the opening game of the Olympics. They were participating in a planned demonstration against racism, discrimination. Even though they lost the game to the other team, some social-media users mocked them for kneeling.
The timing of the anthem in Eugene, Oregon, coincided with the track and field podium ceremony, and a protest of this magnitude did not go unnoticed by many. The protest did not cause a commotion about the right of free speech at the Olympic Games. While there is no law that prohibits certain types of protests from being held, some members in the international community (including the IOC) have voiced their opposition.