An member of the United States fencing team, who won gold in the Lima 2019 Pan American Games, knelt on the podium during the national anthem as a protest against the government of Donald Trump.
This person is Race Imboden, part of the US fencing team, who explained through his Twitter account that he decided to kneel to draw attention to the issues he believes need to be addressed, such as racism, gun control, and mistreatment of immigrants.
"We must call for change. This week, I have the honor of representing the United States team in the Pan American Games and I bring home gold and bronze medals. But my pride has been tarnished by the multiple shortcomings of the country I love with all my heart. Racism, gun control, mistreatment of immigrants, and a president who spreads hate are at the top of a long list," wrote the American.
Context of the protest and reaction
Imboden's protest comes amid the ongoing debate in the United States on a series of issues including gun control following the shootings in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to the comments made by President Donald Trump against immigrants.
However, the demonstration could result in a sanction as athletes from his delegation pledge not to engage in political demonstrations. In response, the Vice President of Communications for the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), Mark Jones, said they were disappointed with the athlete's attitude.
"Every athlete competing in the Lima 2019 Pan American Games agrees to eligibility terms and even refrains from engaging in demonstrations of a political nature (...) We respect his right to express his views, but we are disappointed that he did not honor his commitment," he said.