Early Wednesday, the USWNT announced the team’s decision to boycott the Women’s World Championships starting on March 31 in Michigan unless ‘significant progress has been made on the year-long negotiations with USA Hockey over fair wages and equitable support.’
USA Hockey reacted to this saying that the organization has increased its financial commitment to the players but will only support them, not employ them.
Even though The U.S. has won gold in six of the past eight world championships and has medaled in every Olympics, including winning gold in 1998.
Player Hilary Knight said she and her teammates are taking inspiration from other female athletes.
“We are fortunate to have strong pioneers who have changed the landscape of their sport. Figures such as Billie Jean King or teams like U.S. women’s soccer have built a foundation not only for hope, but for action. As leaders in the sport of hockey, we are asking for equitable support and encouragement for participation for women,” Knight said. “This is another important step for women in sports, but also for women at large and for generations to come in our fight for equal pay and support.”
“We train all day, every day, all year, to represent our country at the Olympics and the world championships. We train for these moments. We don’t want to miss them. And it is hard to believe that in 2017 we still have to fight for equitable treatment and support as women.
U.S. captain Meghan Duggan
Early Wednesday, the USWNT announced the team’s decision to boycott the Women’s World Championships starting on March 31 in Michigan unless ‘significant progress has been made on the year-long negotiations with USA Hockey over fair wages and equitable support.’
USA Hockey reacted with the following statement:
