20-year-old midfielder Korbin Albert of the U.S. women’s national soccer team is an outspoken Christian. This fact doesn’t sit will with some of the team’s retired players, including renown left-wing activist Megan Rapinoe.
Albert shared a Christian-themed social media post that discussed homosexuality and “feeling transgender,” according to the U.K.’s Daily Mail.
Retired USWNT player and LGBT activist Megan Rapinoe and others described Albert’s comments as “hate.”
The scolding from LGBTQ activists was overwhelming for Albert, who later issued an apology.
Albert’s Instagram and TikTok accounts mention her Christian faith and includes a version of the phrase “Jesus is king.”
Albert’s original Christian-themed posts have since been deleted due to the backlash from Rapinoe.
Rapinoe said, “To the people who want to hide behind ‘my beliefs’ I would just ask one question, are you making any time of space safer, more inclusive, more whole, any semblance of better, bringing the best out of anyone? … because if you aren’t all you believe in is hate. And Kids are literally killing themselves because of this hate. Wake TF up! Yours Truly, #15,” the outspoken LGBTQ activist wrote.
“For all my trans homies enduring this horrific treatment day in and day out, I see you and hear you and I am WITH YOU,” she added on Instagram.
In her apology, Albert said, “I want to sincerely apologize for my actions on social media. Liking and sharing posts that are offensive, insensitive and hurtful was immature and disrespectful which was never my intent.”
“I’m really disappointed in myself and am deeply sorry for the hurt that I have caused to my teammates, other players, fans, friends and anyone who was offended,” she continued. “I truly believe that everyone should feel safe and respected everywhere and on all playing fields. I know my actions have not lived up to that and for that I sincerely apologize. It’s an honor and a privilege to get to play this sport and on the world stage and I promise to do better,” she added.
From her vocal stance on racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights to her advocacy for pay equity and gender equality, Rapinoe’s impact extends far beyond the soccer field, underscoring her role as a figure in the realm of social activism and progressive advocacy.
Rapinoe’s principled advocacy was prominently showcased when she kneeled during the national anthem at a USWNT match in solidarity with NFL player Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality and racial inequality in the United States.
Her demonstration, despite sparking criticism from some quarters, underscored her commitment to advocating for racial justice and systemic equality.
Rapinoe has been a vocal proponent for pay equity, particularly within the realm of women’s soccer. As a member of the United States Women’s National Team (USWNT), she played a pivotal role in the team’s legal pursuit of equal compensation, underscoring the imperative of rectifying disparities and advocating for equitable treatment and recognition within the realm of professional sports.
Beyond her advocacy for racial and gender equality, Rapinoe has been an ardent advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, leveraging her platform to promote inclusivity, representation, and visibility for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Her unwavering commitment to fostering an environment conducive to LGBTQ+ inclusion within the sports domain reflects her enduring dedication to effecting societal change and advancing progressive values.
Rapinoe’s impactful advocacy extends beyond occasional statements, embodying a new paradigm of athlete activism that transcends the boundaries of sports. Her vocal stance on social injustices, her unyielding commitment to progressive causes, and her influential role in shaping conversations surrounding gender, race, and LGBTQ+ rights exemplify her profound impact as a trailblazing athlete activist.
Megan Rapinoe’s legacy is now a commitment to championing progressive causes and effecting societal change.
Her resolute activism, vocal stance on social injustices, and entrepreneurial endeavors underscore her enduring impact as a athlete activist and progressive advocate.
