MLS Updates Language On Political Displays In Fan Code Of Conduct

MLS has published an updated Fan Code of Conduct for the '20 season, "addressing concerns" about the language in the '19 fan code that "led to protests," according to Paul Kennedy of SOCCER AMERICA. The revisions include a "clarification about what conduct, signage and language is prohibited at league events." In '19, the Iron Front symbol "became the center of a dispute between fans in several markets and the league over political activism in stadiums." The dispute "centered around the use of the word 'political'" that was introduced as part of the language in the '19 Fan Code of Conduct. MLS officials "developed the new language" for the '20 Fan Code of Conduct with help of leadership from the Independent Supporters Council, an organization that represents fan groups throughout the league. The ISC "cited several human rights organizations as having consulted with MLS in exploring options for the language for the Code" (SOCCERAMERICA.com, 2/18).