The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has issued a statement that it has temporarily suspended its investigation into a gesture made on the medal podium by American silver medal winner, Raven Saunders, after receiving the news that the athlete’s mother passed away.
Earlier this week, the IOC said that it was investigating Raven Saunders after she raised her arms in an X above her head in Sunday’s medal ceremony, which she later indicated was an expression of support for the oppressed.
While the IOC have ruled to relax Rule 50 to allow gestures, such as taking the knee on the field of play provided athletes do so without disruption and with respect for fellow competitors, it banned such gestures on the podium.
The IOC said that the investigation into Raven Saunders has been temporarily suspended. “We heard the very sad news this morning of the passing of Raven Saunders’ mother. The IOC extends its condolences to Raven and her family. You will understand that given these circumstances the process is fully suspended for the time being.”
The USOPC said that the gesture by Raven Saunders did not breach the rules as it was a “peaceful expression in support of racial and social justice (that) was respectful of her competitors” as she had waited until after the ceremony and national anthem was played.
Sources: CNN. MSN
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