The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee will allow athletes to protest against racial injustice and other social injustices without consequence.
“We have made the decision that team USA athletes will not be sanctioned by the USOPC for peacefully and respectfully demonstrating in support of racial and social justice for all human beings,” USOPC CEO Sarah Hirshland said in a statement.
She added, “First and foremost, it is critical to state unequivocally that human rights are not political, and peaceful calls for equity and equality must not be confused with divisive demonstrations.”
Hirshland mentioned the experiences of a few athletes whose acts of protest were met with opposition.
“It is clear now that this organization should have supported instead of condemned, and advocated for understanding instead of relying on previous precedent,” Hirshland wrote.
She continued, “For that, I apologize, and look forward to a future where rules are clear, intentions are better understood, and voices are empowered.”
Hirshland explained the decision recognizes “athletes serve as a beacon of inspiration and unity globally, and their voices have and will be a force for good and progress in our society.”
She reiterated it is crucial platforms such as these are used to promote discussion, education, and action for racial and social justice.
“The Olympic and Paralympic Games have a truly unique ability to bring the world together in solidarity, and until we have equality for all, we should never stop striving together in the name of progress,” Hirshland continued.
The Tokyo Olympics were postponed to July of 2021 in March, as IJR previously reported.
The National Basketball Association (NBA), Major League Baseball, Major League Soccer, and the Women’s NBA all postponed games over the summer to protest racial injustice and police brutality.
President Donald Trump called the NBA a “political organization,” as IJR previously reported.