A Statement on CONCACAF and Shared Values

We find ourselves here, yet again. CONCACAF has informed us that our values and support of Human Rights are unacceptable for display at matches in their competition. We heard last week that our Iron Front and “Anti-Fascist | Anti-Racist | Always Seattle” Flags would not be allowed. We ignored it and waved them proudly. Now we have heard this week that additional banners will not be allowed for the home match in Spokane, including “BLM Banners”, “Trans Rights”, Raised Fist, and “No Place for Transphobia, Homophobia, Fascism, Sexism, Racism”.

We fought this battle at the 2022 CCL Final, when CONCACAF insisted our “Emerald City Supports Trans Kids” Banners be removed. We refused, and the banners remained throughout the historic match. We fought this during the 2025 CCC Tournament, when CONCACAF declared our “Black Lives Matter” flag to be racist and that it had to be removed. We refused, and the flag flew overhead all night long.

As we’ve talked through this issue with the Sounders Front Office this week, we are proud to remain aligned on our values. Together, we determined that the best way to fight back against CONCACAF’s censorship is to publicly and loudly use our platforms as a fundraiser for local community organizations that do the work day-in and day-out to support the values that we share. In service of this partnership, the Sounders and RAVE foundation have committed to make significant financial donations to the following organizations.

We encourage ECS members, Sounders fans, and others who share our values to join us by making a donation and amplifying these causes if you are able.

Lambert House’s work “empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth through the development of leadership, social, and life skills.” Donate

Black Future Co-Op Fund’s mission is to “ignite generational wealth, health, and well-being for Black Washingtonians through Black community-led philanthropy.” Donate

WAISN’s work “builds collective power for immigrants and refugees across Washington through peaceful, non-violent, community led action.” Donate