OPINION:
U.S. Olympic Hammer throw qualifier Gwendolyn Berry turned her back on the national anthem while being recognized for her success (“Happy birthday America: Ask not ‘What’s in it for me?’” Web, July 1). Afterward she said, “My purpose and my mission is bigger than sports. I’m here to represent those … who died due to systemic racism. That’s the important part. That’s why I’m going. That’s why I’m here today.” She added, “The anthem doesn’t speak for me. It never has.”
While Ms. Berry has every right under our First Amendment to say whatever she wants, it is not her right to be part of the U.S. Olympic Team, which represents the United States of America and is symbolized by our flag and anthem. As she has clearly stated, she has no interest in representing the U.S., so she should not be permitted to be on the U.S. Olympic team, the entire purpose of which is to represent America.
Perhaps Ms. Berry can find another country’s team to join, say Communist China, Russia or Cuba. She seems to be a perfect fit for one of those teams.
BOB SEGAL
Burke, Va.
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