2020 Olympics Bans Athletes From Taking A Knee, Raising Fists
Photo Credit: Bettmann/Getty Images
Photo Credit: Bettmann/Getty Images
The strict set of guidelines was published by the International Olympic Committee this week.
Athletes will not be allowed to make any gestures that could be seen as a political protest at this year's Olympics.
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The International Olympic Committee (IOC) issued a set of guidelines for the forthcoming 2020 Olympic Games. Included in those guidelines is the barring of protests and demonstrations at all Olympic venues. The IOC defines what would constitute a protest as: displaying any political messaging, including hand signs or armbands; gestures of a political nature, like a hand gesture or kneeling; and refusal to follow the Ceremonies protocol.
"We believe that the example we set by competing with theworld’s best while living in harmony in the Olympic Village is a uniquely positive message to send to an increasingly divided world," the guideline reads. "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 guideline goes on to say elsewhere that: "When an individual makes their grievances, however legitimate, more important than the feelings of their competitors and the competition itself, the unity and harmony as well as the celebration of sport and human accomplishment are diminished."
The guideline doesn't specify what consequences those that ignore the ban will face, saying only "disciplinary action will be taken on a case-by-case basis."
The 32nd Olympics is taking place in Tokyo.
H/T: The New York Post
