USWNT calls for repeal on national anthem protest ban, demands apology

On Tuesday, the U.S. Soccer Federation's (USSF) board of directors is expected to discuss repealing the policy that requires all players to stand during the national anthem before games. And the U.S. women's national team's players association has issued a statement demanding that the policy is repealed and that the USWNT receive an official apology from the USSF.

"We believe the Federation should immediately repeal the ‘Anthem Policy,’ publish a statement acknowledging the policy was wrong when it was adopted, and issue an apology to our black players and supporters," the statement began.

The policy was adopted after Megan Rapinoe knelt before a 2016 game against Thailand as a sign of solidarity with Colin Kaepernick. But in the wake of nationwide protests regarding police brutality and racial inequality, the USSF seems to be reconsidering its position. However, the statement called for the USSF to do more than just repeal a policy.

"Further, we believe the Federation should lay out its plans on how it will now support the message and movement that it tried to silence four years ago," the statement continued. "Until USSF does so, the mere existence of the policy will continue to perpetuate the misconceptions and fear that clouded the true meaning and significance of Colin Kaepernick, Megan Rapinoe and other athletes taking a knee — that black people in America have not been and continue to not be afforded the same liberties and freedoms as white people and that police brutality and systemic racism exist in this country."

Fortunately, the repeal of the policy seems to be gaining momentum, as board member Steve Malik, who also owns the North Carolina Courage and North Carolina FC, reportedly is in favor of the repeal. However, it is currently unclear if the USSF has any intention of apologizing to USWNT. Either way, the players association made it clear the team was committed to fighting for lasting, systemic change.

"This is everybody’s responsibility, including this union and its members; we could and should have done more in the past. We are committed to rising up against racist, hateful and unjust acts to effect change. Black lives matter."