The Utah Royals soccer team faced criticism for having America First Credit Union as their jersey sponsor.
Supporter groups for opposing teams claimed the phrase “America First” has a racist history linked to fascism and the KKK.
“While we support all the Utah players and their fans, we can’t stand by without mentioning the front of jersey sponsor, America First Credit Union, of our opponent — the Utah Royals,” The Uproar stated.
Chicago Local 134’s statement on the front shirt sponsor for our opponent on March 16, Utah Royals. We recommend you listen to Andre & Courtney’s full discussion of in the Diaspora United episode, Live, Laugh, Learn [W Gold Cup Chaos & NWSL Kit Talk], beginning at 49:57. pic.twitter.com/1z5sYQhSoa
— Chicago Local 134 (@ChicagoLocal134) March 15, 2024
“The phrase ‘America First’ has a long history rooted in racism, fascism, and hateful ideology.”
“The history of the phrase ‘America First’ and the imagery used in the credit union’s logo is rooted in racist ideology [and] propaganda that harks back to the Nazis and the KKK,” Chicago Local 134 stated.
“[S]occer is for all, and promoting an institution that is represented by racist propaganda is unacceptable,” they wrote.
However, America First Credit Union has used that name for over 80 years since being founded to serve military bases, saying it represents putting customers first.
The company logo is also meant to depict a bald eagle.
While some phrases have been misused, the credit union says its name and history have always focused on serving members and community.
“America First Credit Union is dedicated to serving the financial needs of all individuals and communities within its field of membership. Its name and history are rooted in the credit union’s initial connection with the United States government, serving civilian federal employees working at American military bases, including Utah’s Fort Douglas, where the credit union was founded in 1939,” the company stated.
“Throughout its 85-year history, America First Credit Union has worked to put the financial needs and interests of its members and community first — never losing sight of their founding principle of ‘people helping people.’”
Utah’s governor disagreed with claims it promoted racism.
“Just when you think this website can’t get any more ridiculous. (I had to double check if this was a parody account…sadly it is not),” Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said of The Uproar.
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