'Not Appropriate'? Olympics Bans ‘Black Lives Matter’ Apparel, Could Punish Athletes For Protests

Olympic athletes are banned from wearing Black Lives Matter statements or apparel at the Summer Olympics in Tokyo.

The International Olympic Committee confirmed the ruling that Black Lives Matter is banned from the games. The rule is part of the committee's long-standing regulations on demonstrations.

The IOC said it surveyed more than 3,500 athletes over the past year and that 70% said it was "not appropriate to demonstrate or express their views" on the field of play or at either the opening or the closing ceremony.

Athletes will face punishment if they violate the rule. Violators will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

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