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Megan Rapinoe: Players of all colours need to fight against racism

United States star Megan Rapinoe says it's up to people of all races to join in the fight against ra...


Megan Rapinoe: Players of all...

Sport

Megan Rapinoe: Players of all colours need to fight against racism


United States star Megan Rapinoe says it's up to people of all races to join in the fight against racism. 

Heung Min Son became the latest big name to face a barrage of online racist abuse, following Tottenham's Premier League defeat to Manchester United.

Several Premier League and Championship players including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Callum Robinson and Marcus Rashford have been subjected to similar abuse this season.

The relevant clubs have condemned the comments, while others like Swansea City and Birmingham City have undertaken their own social media blackouts in response.

"It's not just black players who have to talk about racism, Rapinoe told RMC Sport on Monday, "Not just gay players who have to talk about homophobia, not just women who have to talk about wage inequality.

"We are all responsible, we must use our voices to stop the discrimination, to stop our oppressors.

"It is not really up to the people who are already oppressed to make sure to shut down a system that they are undergoing.

"This is not how there will be real social change.

"We know that there must be collaboration from everyone. We saw that in the United States."

Rapinoe was speaking ahead of Tuesday night's friendly meeting of France and the United States in Le Havre.

She's been outspoken in the US Women's National team's fight to achieve pay parity with their male counterparts.

The 35-year old feels more European footballers should use their profile to enact change, once it's important to them.

She highlighted fellow US stars Serena Williams and LeBron James as major names using their voices for good.

"It is important that they understand that they will always be seen as global role models," Rapinoe said, "While people are listening, use this platform to do good. 

"You saw what Rashford did in his country, he had an incredible impact, especially during the pandemic.

"That doesn't mean you have to talk about every problem all the time.

"Find something that you are passionate about, use your power and influence because you can really make a huge impact as a great soccer player.

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France Marcus Rashford Megan Rapinoe Racism USA

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