A salute to Megan Rapinoe: A valid protest
To the Times: Many believe that sports and politics should not mix. However, today’s political state of affairs has made this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup one of the most controversial of all time. Megan Rapinoe, a player and captain of the United States women’s national soccer team, has joined Colin Kaepernick’s protest on the international stage by taking a knee during the U.S. national anthem. Rapinoe has declined to place her hand over her heart during the playing of the anthem, and also opted not to sing the words. Causing political turmoil throughout the U.S., Rapinoe’s protest has been quite unpopular among President Donald Trump and his supporters.
People have commented on Rapinoe’s social media posts in attempt to shame her for joining this widespread protest against the unfair legislature in the United States. Among other names, they call her “anti-American,” falsely suggesting that she disrespects the U.S. What’s more disturbing, though, is the chauvinistic nature of these comments. Disguised in a mask of patriotism, they bleed with nationalism.
Those who attack Rapinoe simply misunderstand the basis for the greater objection that floods the sports world today. This protest is not as “anti-American” as much as it opposes systemic oppression in our government. Regardless of your political stance, is important to acknowledge the harm that today’s legislature does to marginalized groups. From current laws that destroy women’s healthcare, to the racial disparities that ignited the protests, to other discriminatory acts, it is clear that our society is largely inequitable.
As a gay woman on the international stage, Megan is extraordinarily compelling in using her power to influence change in an issue to which so many people turn a blind eye. Rapinoe alludes to the goal of unifying our country in ethical, equitable harmony; she leads us toward the pursuit of the ultimate American dream.
While many view the national anthem as a beacon of promise in our country, it stands for more than just support for the United States. It stands for this country’s history as well as its current government and leadership, both of which have some highly objectionable aspects.
While respect for our nation is a valuable, unifying aspect of life in the United States, we must recognize that our country is not perfect. We still have a long way to go to fulfill the dream upon which the United States was built.
It is our duty to serve all Americans with liberty and justice, rather than only a select few of a privileged socioeconomic class. There are a few ways for us to accomplish this goal: one way is simply to vote! Especially in the upcoming presidential election, we can vote for candidates who support socioeconomic equality and are devoted to relieving societal injustices. Furthermore, we can donate to organizations that support marginalized groups and advocate for their rights.
While some may believe that sports and politics must stay separate, I believe that Megan Rapinoe’s protest extends beyond soccer. It is a wakeup call to the United States of America, imploring us all to do better.
“While respect for our nation is a valuable, unifying aspect of life in the United States, we must recognize that our country is not perfect.”
— Angelina Wong