U.S. Women’s National Team Moves On from Kneeling: Focus Shifts to Behind-the-Scenes Action Against Racial Inequity

The U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT) has decided to discontinue kneeling during the national anthem before matches and will instead focus on behind-the-scenes work to combat systemic racism and promote racial equality. This shift marks a significant change in how the team will approach activism, moving beyond visible protests to more sustained, strategic actions aimed at creating lasting change.

The Shift from Kneeling to Action

The decision to stop kneeling during the anthem was made collectively by the players, including key figures like Carli Lloyd, Lindsey Horan, Julie Ertz, and defender Crystal Dunn. Dunn, who has been vocal about the team’s commitment to racial justice, explained the reasoning behind the shift: “I think those that were collectively kneeling felt like we were kneeling to bring about attention to police brutality and systemic racism, and I think we decided that moving forward we no longer feel the need to kneel because we are doing the work behind the scenes,” Dunn said.

The USWNT’s activism began when midfielder Megan Rapinoe took a knee during the national anthem in 2016 in solidarity with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality and racial injustice. Rapinoe’s actions drew both praise and criticism, and the US Soccer Federation initially implemented a rule that required players to stand during the anthem. However, after the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent global protests, the sentiment surrounding anthem protests changed, and the rule was repealed.

The Role of Athlete Activism: Moving Beyond the Anthem

While the USWNT initially used the national anthem as a stage for protest, the team’s evolution reflects a deeper understanding of the complexities of activism. The players recognize that visible actions like kneeling are powerful, but they also understand that meaningful change requires consistent, long-term work that goes beyond symbolic gestures.

Defender Midge Purce, one of the key figures behind the creation of the Black Women’s Player Collective, emphasized the importance of using their platform to elevate the voices and experiences of Black women in soccer. The Collective has launched several initiatives, including a fundraising effort to provide free soccer clinics and help young players attend National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) games. The group exceeded its $20,000 fundraising goal within a day, highlighting the collective’s significant impact.

Purce’s initiative is not only about bringing attention to issues but about tangible change in local communities. “We want to do everything we can to support the Black players and put their voices at the forefront,” said defender Tierna Davidson, acknowledging the need to balance the efforts of both Black and white players in this fight. “But also not require them to do all the work and always be front-facing,” she added.

Angel City FC and the Anti-Racism Project

Another important development in the fight against systemic racism in soccer comes from Angel City FC, a team that will debut in the NWSL in 2022. On Wednesday, the club joined forces with Common Goal to launch the Anti-Racists Project, which aims to address racial inequality through education at all levels of the game. The project is supported by organizations such as Major League Soccer’s Chicago Fire, NWSL, U.S. men’s national team goalkeeper Zack Steffen, and various other clubs and supporters’ groups.

Angel City’s commitment to tackling systemic racism both in the sport and in society at large is part of a larger movement within the NWSL and soccer as a whole, where activism and education are becoming key priorities.

What’s Next for the U.S. Women’s National Team?

The USWNT’s move away from kneeling is a pivotal moment in their ongoing commitment to social justice. As the team transitions from public protest to real-world efforts, their focus will now be on pushing for systemic change. While the team’s public visibility is still significant, players are also working with organizations and engaging in grassroots efforts to address issues of inequality within the sport and beyond.

The question now is whether other sports teams, leagues, and athletes will follow suit. The USWNT’s leadership on social issues has set a powerful example. The team’s ability to evolve its methods of activism could be a model for other organizations seeking to have a real impact in their communities. The challenge will be ensuring that behind-the-scenes work—like advocating for better policies, supporting Black communities, and providing opportunities for marginalized athletes—continues to thrive as an integral part of the league’s mission.

A Reflection of the Times: Moving Beyond Symbols

The USWNT’s decision to stop kneeling is not an abandonment of activism but rather an evolution in how athletes use their platform for change. The team’s shift from public protest to action off the field represents a growing understanding of what it means to be an activist in today’s world—using one’s voice, resources, and platform to challenge the status quo.

The WNBA, the NWSL, and other leagues are similarly witnessing shifts in the way athletes approach social issues. The conversation is moving from high-profile demonstrations during games to more sustained efforts to address systemic inequalities that persist in society. The shift away from visible gestures like kneeling, though controversial to some, is a natural progression in the activism of athletes.

Conclusion: Empowering Change, On and Off the Field

As the U.S. Women’s National Team embarks on this next phase of activism, they send a powerful message: action is more important than symbolism. With ongoing efforts to push for racial equality, promote education, and empower marginalized communities, the players are showing that the work they do off the field is just as important as what they accomplish on it.

In moving away from kneeling, the team isn’t abandoning the fight for racial justice; they’re simply shifting gears. They’re focusing on the long-term, behind-the-scenes work necessary to create lasting change in the sport and society. As the world watches, the USWNT continues to lead the way—not just in soccer, but in shaping what activism in sports can truly achieve.