Tokyo Olympics athletes barred from wearing 'Black Lives Matter' apparel during ceremonies

Tokyo Olympics athletes will not be allowed to wear "Black Lives Matter" apparel at ceremonies this summer, the International Olympic Committee announced Tuesday, according to The Associated Press (h/t WBTV).

The news comes after a survey found that the majority of competitors were in favor of keeping the ban on protests and political messages in place. 

The IOC surveyed more than 3,500 athletes over the past year and said that 70% responded that it was "not appropriate to demonstrate or express their views" on the field of play or at the opening or closing ceremony.

Any instance of breaking the rules will be evaluated by an athlete's respective National Olympic Committee, International Federation and the IOC and disciplinary action will be taken on a case-by-case basis. 

The IOC said that slogans such as "peace," "respect," "solidarity," "inclusion" and "equality" will be allowed on apparel. "BLM" slogans will be allowed during at least some parts of the Games, such as at press conferences, during interviews and at team meetings.