Olympic athlete Gwen Berry, who made headlines last month by protesting during the national anthem after qualifying for the games, said only time will tell if she’ll do the same should she make it to the Olympic podium.
“We’ll see … It depends on how I’m feeling,” the track and field star said while appearing on “Don Lemon Tonight” Thursday. “It depends on what I want to do in that moment, and what I want to do for my people in that moment.”
As the “The Star-Spangled Banner” played during the Olympic qualifiers ceremony, Berry faced away from the American flag and held up a t-shirt that read “activist athlete.” Berry quickly drew backlash over her actions, which she said were in protest of the treatment of the Black community.
“I do respect the Constitution,” Berry told Lemon. “But I will not stand for any symbol or song that does not stand for all people in America.”
When asked by Lemon which part of the song upset her, Berry said, “It’s all of these words. Freedom, justice… these are things that do not hold true for all Americans.”
Berry took to Instagram to double-down on her point, sharing the CNN interview.
“Liberty and justice for ALL,” Berry captioned the Instagram post. “Until this is true, I will not waver.”
She added, “I will stand for my people, I will speak for my communities.”
While certain racial and social justice demonstrations were allowed at the Olympic and Paralympic trials, they will be banned at the 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games. Should she choose to protest again, Berry will be in violation of the International Olympic Committee’s Rule 50.
Berry said using her voice is her priority over any repercussions, including losing sponsorships.
“I’ve already been through all of that,” she said. “And yet I am still here, still saying that my Black communities need help.”