In a significant policy reversal, the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF) has officially repealed its requirement that players stand during the national anthem, acknowledging that the previous mandate was misguided and detracted from the important message of the Black Lives Matter movement
The policy, known as Policy 604-1, was initially implemented in 2017 after U.S. women’s national team star Megan Rapinoe knelt during the anthem in solidarity with NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality and racial injustice. At the time, the USSF’s board of directors passed a rule mandating that players “stand respectfully” during the national anthem at all federation events.
However, in the wake of nationwide protests following the death of George Floyd in 2020, the USSF began to reconsider its stance. On June 10, 2020, the USSF Board of Directors voted to repeal Policy 604-1, stating, “It has become clear that this policy was wrong and detracted from the important message of Black Lives Matter.” This decision was later ratified by the federation’s National Council on February 27, 2021, with over 70% of the vote in favor of the repeal. 
The USSF’s reversal aligns with broader shifts in the sports world, where organizations like the NFL have acknowledged past mistakes in handling player protests and have expressed support for athletes’ rights to peacefully protest
This policy change reflects a growing recognition of the role that athletes play in advocating for social justice and the importance of allowing them to express their views on systemic issues. By lifting the ban on kneeling during the national anthem, the USSF has taken a step toward supporting its players’ rights to free expression and acknowledging the significance of their voices in the ongoing fight against racial injustice.
The decision also underscores the evolving understanding of patriotism and protest in the United States, highlighting that peaceful demonstrations can coexist with national pride and can serve as powerful catalysts for change. As the conversation around social justice continues, the USSF’s policy reversal serves as a reminder of the importance of listening to and supporting those who use their platforms to advocate for a more equitable society.
