Reign FC will support Megan Rapinoe as she continues to kneel during the anthem
The Seattle Reign are stepping up for Rapinoe
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2 min read
After following in the footsteps of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick by kneeling during the national anthem, USWNT star midfielder Megan Rapinoe now has the support of her soccer team.
It's the least I can do. Keep the conversation going. https://t.co/qwfHcqgV6J
— Megan Rapinoe (@mPinoe) September 5, 2016
The Seattle Reign released a statement on Wednesday that they are supporting Rapinoe as she continues to kneel during the national anthem. It comes as a bit of a surprise that the club would publicly support it, especially after the backlash that Kaepernick received, but the club made it clear as to why it was doing so. More from the Reign:
"We recognize Megan's decision was offensive to some and a source of inspiration to others," the club said. "We empathize with those offended, as we understand that the playing of the national anthem is one of our nation's most revered public celebrations, honoring the sacrifices that have been made -- and continue to be made -- by those serving in our armed forced. At the same time, we see many inspired by Megan's decision, as the courage she exhibited by acting on her beliefs empowers others to take action as well. We will continue to encourage all Reign FC players to participate in the pre-match ceremony, which honors those who have served and made sacrifices on our behalf. We will also continue to allow players to participate in the pre-match ceremony in a manner consistent with their personal beliefs, reflecting our respect for the rights earned and defended by those fighting for our nation."
Seems cut and dry by the team. Rapinoe's decision to kneel came as a "nod to Kaepernick," she revealed after Sunday's match.
"I am disgusted with the way he has been treated and the fans and hatred he has received in all of this," Rapinoe said Sunday. "It is overtly racist. 'Stay in your place, black man.' Just didn't feel right to me. We need a more substantive conversation around race relations and the way people of color are treated."
Rapinoe has also said that being openly gay influenced her decision to take a stand, because she feels there are times she stands with her hand over her heart during the anthem despite not having her liberties protected.
"We are not saying we are not one the greatest countries in world. Just need to accept that [it is] not perfect, things are broken," Rapinoe said.
Her club is protecting her and encouraging her to continue to kneel if she wishes. For those wondering if she'll do the same while representing the United States, the national team will square off against Thailand on Thursday in Columbus.
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