Athletes have been banned from protesting or advocating "any political messaging" at the 2020 Olympic Games, according to newly released guidelines.
- Displaying any political messaging, including signs or armbands
- Gestures of a political nature, like a hand gesture or kneeling
- Refusal to follow the Ceremonies protocol
The guidelines said that while political statements will not be welcome in Olympic venues, on the sporting field, or at the podium, athletes can exercise their "freedom of expression" outside Olympic venues, as well as in press conferences, interviews, team meetings, and on social and other media platforms.
Berry raised a right fist and bowed her head as the medal ceremony closed, which she later told media was aimed at injustice.
Meanwhile, Imboden chose to kneel during a medal ceremony to "call attention to issues that I believe need to be addressed."
At the time, Mark Jones, vice president of communications for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee, told ESPN in a statement that his committee was disappointed by the protests.
"Every athlete competing at the 2019 Pan American Games commits to terms of eligibility, including to refrain from demonstrations that are political in nature," he said.
"We respect their rights to express their viewpoints, but we are disappointed that they chose not to honor their commitment. Our leadership are reviewing what consequences may result.”
As a result of the two protests in August, the United States Olympic Committee placed both Berry and Imboden on 12-month probation.
The IOC has not specified the consequences of violating the rules in its new guidelines. Instead, it stated, “Each incident will be evaluated by their respective National Olympic Committee, International Federation, and the IOC, and disciplinary action will be taken on a case-by-case basis as necessary.”