In recent times, we have seen athletes use their status to provoke cultural change or to raise awareness on social issues.
Most recently, we saw NFL Quarterback Colin Kaepernick taking a stand when he refused to stand during the USA’s National Anthem before games. This was in reference to racial oppression and police brutality.
The committee for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo has spoken regarding this topic, stating that any form of protesting from athletes will not be tolerated in the upcoming games. The committee released the following statement: “We believe that the example we set by competing with the worlds best while living in harmony in the Olympic Village is a uniquely positive message to send to an increasingly divided world.”
They then elaborated with the following, “This is why it is important, on both a personal and a global level, that we keep the venues, the Olympic Village and the podium neutral and free from any form of political, religious or ethnic demonstrations.”
The games are due to start on the 24th of July 2020.
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