American gold medalists reprimanded after protests at Pan American Games
(CNN) — Both US athletes that exhibited throughout separate National Anthems in a regional sports contest earlier this month have been placed on probation for 12 weeks.
US Olympic & Paralympic Committee Chief Executive Officer Sarah Hirshland wrote to hammer thrower Gwen Berry and fencer Rush Imboden, stating”while I respect your perspective — and that of every athlete to whom I am lucky enough to serve — that I personally disagree with all the moment and manner in which you opted to convey your views.”
All participants signed agreements not to make some political, religious, or racial comment in Lima, Peru at the Pan American Games.
Hirshland’s letter warned the two athletes another signal violation could result in”more significant sanctions” compared to an athlete in good standing.
Both athletes may participate in sanctioned events. Berry will participate in the entire world track and field championships every month in Doha, Qatar.
CNN has reached out through their sports federations to Berry and Imboden but neither individual responded instantly.
Berry’s representative told CNN interviews are not being done by her and would like to focus on her training.
“She wants no distractions because her objective is to medal to the USA at the women’s hammer, something which has never been achieved before,” John Nubani composed in an email to CNN.
After her demonstration of a raised fist, she advised track and field website FloTrack:”I understand everything I did, and then I know I broke the rules, and I’ll make that sacrifice. I am honored to make this sacrifice.”
Berry bowed her head and Imboden knelt while they all were about a ribbon podium and raised her fist in the air.
Taking a knee turned into a form of civil protest following former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat took a knee against people of colour during the 2016 soccer period in protest of police brutality and injustice through the National Anthem.
Since that time, numerous athletes, to football star Megan Rapinoe to high schoolers, out of NFL players have knelt as a kind of protest, sparking anger from many others and Trump.
After he knelt Imboden said:”We must call for modification. I’m honored to represent Team USA in the Pan Am Games, taking home gold and 20, this week. My pride yet has been cut short by the shortcomings of the country I hold dear to my heart. Gun control, a president that spreads hatred, along with mistreatment of immigrants are at the peak of a list.
“I chose to (sacrifice) my second now near the peak of the podium to call attention to issues that I believe have to be dealt with. I encourage other people to please use your platforms for empowerment and change,” he said.
Imboden, 26, won a bronze medal at the men’s individual foil on Tuesday, and is rated as the world’s second-best in the foil event. He helped the US win gold in the men’s foil team occasion.
As Imboden knelt, Nick Itkin and his teammates Gerek Meinhardt stood.
Berry took gold in the women’s hammer throw, and she lifted her fist in the air and bowed her in protest at the end of the National Anthem. It was a protest reminiscent of John Carlos and Tommie Smith at the 1968 Olympics.
“Someone must stand for each of the injustices which are going on in America and also a president who’s making it even more challenging,” she told USA Today. “It’s too important not to say something”
The probationary period could include the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which start July 24.
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