Crystal Palace defender’s reprimand over religious message on rainbow captain’s armband sparks debate
There has been worldwide debate over the cautioning of Crystal Palace defender, Marc Guehi, by the England FA, after he wrote “I Love Jesus” on his rainbow captain’s armband worn during the match against Newcastle United over the weekend.
Officials of the English top flight said the 24-year-old had breached the law. According to the texts, “Equipment must not have any political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images.”
It further indicates that in case of a breach, “the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA.”
Though the Football Association has said the player will not be charged this time around, several people have slammed the English football authorities for reprimanding the defender. Among the discontented persons is Guehi’s father who is a church minister. He said his son “did nothing wrong” in expressing his love for God.
The player’s father said the LGBTQ+ community is trying to impose their views on everyone.
The wearing of rainbow armbands which will be done for matchweeks 13 and 14 of the Premier League, is part of an initiative by the EPL in partnership with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall, to promote equality, diversity and LGBTQ+ acceptance. The Rainbow Laces campaign was introduced in 2013.
Players are not obliged to wear the armbands if it does not please them. Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy, who is a practising Muslim, was the only captain who did not wear the rainbow armband during the matchday 13 fixtures. His team confirmed he chose not to because of his religious beliefs.
Displeased fans have questioned why Sam Morsy did not face any charges for not wearing the armband at all.
Saturday, November 30, was an unfortunate day altogether for Ivory Coast-born English international, Marc Guehi, as he scored an own goal in his team’s 1-1 draw against Newcastle United.
