I'm in Nike's Ads, But They Won't Give Me Maternity Protections | NYT Opinion

I’ve always known that expressing myself could hurt my career. I’ve tried not to show emotion, to anticipate what people expect from me and to do it. I don’t like to let people down. But change does not come from silence.
Last week, two of my former Nike teammates, the Olympian runners Alysia Montaño and Kara Goucher, heroically broke their nondisclosure agreements with the company to share their pregnancy stories in a New York Times investigation.
Theirs are stories that we know to be true, but were too scared to tell publicly: If we have children, we risk pay cuts from our sponsors during pregnancy and afterward. It’s one example of a sports industry where the rules are still mostly made for and by men.
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[@nytimes]

Last week, the Olympian runner Alysia Montaño heroically broke her nondisclosure agreements with the company to share her pregnancy stories. You can watch it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIrZmX56fdiKiKc

[@changgun_film5003]

Thank u!!!!!!!!

[@numbers7n]

We are with you Allyson!!! Nike needs to protect its female athletes and not punish them for bearing children!!

[@user-xp2nv4qp8u]

Heroically😂

[@asicdathens]

@K Korona No they are showing Nike'a hypocrisy as a "supporter of women" in their ads when their actions suggest the opposite. The moment you stop appearing as a commodity in their eyes you're history. And they're stupid and sexist. Some photos of a clearly pregnant track star would have attracted many more female customers in their stores. And most of their business is in the women's clothing. Also I'm an Adidas person and do not like Nike.

[@KevinGarcia-mt6lj]

Playing Devil's advocate and not making forming an opinion based on so few facts..... what's Nike's reasoning for it? Strictly looking at it from a logical perspective, I wonder if the issue is that after childbirth, the same level of performance, publicity, likelyhood of winning a competition all decrease? So looking at it, again logically and objectively, treating everyone equal would entail the same treatment when those criteria are met, whether they be man or woman. If a man were to be out of the spotlight for near a year, undergo a chance to his body which will never be the same again, and have the same chances of success and publicity/fame for Nike to capitalize on, I assume he would get similar offers, no? Also, hows the employment contract formed? Is this a 1099 situation or a w-2 situation? You can't expect a company to provide the same level of benefits and protections to a contractor, that it would an employee. Theres a lot of legal muck that takes place with liability, and theres a big diff. Between being a contractor and an employee. Thoughts?

[@audrey1053]

*The point is: Nike makes money promoting feminist ideals they don't uphold. That's the core problem.*

[@___-yy8ud]

So close, but divisionism with the fake face of Feminism is the problem

[@rofidganteng1]

@@___-yy8ud so nike faking fake feminism. Even they cant cant doing something WRONG -- RIGHT

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

hey, it's not just Nike. I think its important to highlight that it's the industry not just Nike. They ARE the industry leader so if they change the others will follow

[@numbers7n]

Wit Compassion Yeah, but it’s Nike putting out statements about empowering women, etc... I’m glad these brave women are speaking up!! It will help all professional female athletes, and it’s not like these big companies can’t afford it! In fact, they should start developing maternity wear clothing!! Embrace it!!

[@BLAMBERRY]

Please give me a feminist ideal...I’ll wait

[@Protantagonist]

Nike: Just DO it! *Terms and Conditions May Apply

[@alaya3322]

I read this in ice cubes voice

[@benban8055]

Nike: Don't Do it! Thats our terms and conditions

[@___blaggard999___8]

Nike, just don't get pregnant

[@hyacinthdibley2420]

Lol. I said the same. More like "don't do it". Poor lady.

[@___blaggard999___8]

I don't work for Nike, I couldnt care less who buys them I was just making a joke about their attitude towards pregnancy.

[@lolaadamczyk6675]

Nike's system is so toxic, I'm definitely not buying from them anymore.

[@thapelomaraisane8705]

Na tjee?

[@lamontyrulez]

Buy Nike it’s all propaganda cause Nike is standing behind black athletes.

[@nataliaswanson8819]

Lamont Johnson so why would a black athlete speak against them?

[@ethericdezigns1528]

Nah... Nike makes best sports products... Although under armour is a great competitor. That's who I would go with if I were a pro athlete.

[@trinitijoy4968]

Under Armour for life

[@Mikapika17]

Guess I’ll be rockin my Adidas until they actually “Just do it”

[@cutekitten1185]

cyoungrun1 what about sketchers

[@cutekitten1185]

cyoungrun1 well what shoes do I buy then...

[@cutekitten1185]

cyoungrun1 okay I’ll get adidas

[@someonenothere8818]

I mean... this is an issue with the entire sports industry. I doubt other companies are better.

[@TheAnimefool]

@cyoungrun1 adidas are actually recorded supporting a number of athletes turned mum, even letting up on there yearly race qota so that mums dont feel pressured tl return too soon

[@mon6745]

I'm so proud of these athletes speaking up! Nike's behaviour is shameful and discriminatory. Nike needs to just do it!

[@BLAMBERRY]

Mo n are you high?

[@freddygarza216]

She black who cares

[@nairabee245]

Tobias Forge that would probably be because the majority of athletes in a any sport that actually matters (basketball, track and field, football etc) are mostly made up of black people. Also because minorities tend to be underrepresented in many forms of media anyways. Either way how is that discrimination against white People? Even arguing it’s underrepresentation is a stretch because the sport the campaign was for is likely majority black people. Never seen a black man (except tiger woods) on a golf ad campaign. Or a swimming ad campaign.

[@willarroz6703]

Tobias Forge because black people fought for it ... now how does it feel and btw this is years of fighting (every since the entertainment industry made it clear we were not welcomed, approximately late 1800s)

[@darienford860]

Nike is a brand, they'll just go to someone else. This is equality for you there's hardly any paternity for men they just have to go through it

[@gwvaio]

And this is how problems get solved. I wish more people spoke out. Corporations get over on people because all negotiations are in the background and silent.

[@PHlophe]

watch black women taking a bullet so that all types of women can enjoy this sport. the same way serena williams fought for equal pay and also forced the tennis world to take maternity leave into consideration.

[@SV-mc1jq]

@@PHlophe The movement for equal pay for women's tennis was started by Billy Jean King. Yes, Serena did stand up herself, but she was not the first one. So stop shifting the issue to a racial problem when its one mostly based on gender.

[@PHlophe]

@@SV-mc1jq sweety, serena was the one that had the pull, when Billie spoke about it, Althea gibson had earned 1% of what billie amassed in a lifetime. so Billie spoke about it entirely from the perspective of whiteness. and billie was the one who was playing in countries and cities where no black person was allowed to be in . serena planted the seed and the fruits, all those white girls are enjoying right now.give credit where it is due. and she is the one who transformed the quality of the game entirely.

[@darienford860]

@@PHlophe Equal pay? Wtf are you talking about Serena was already making more than the average male player

[@ddame5925]

I think they’re scared of the backlash. These companies have the money and resources to ruin them.

[@keishastrachan8728]

Makes sense why Serena Williams went back to the court so fast.

[@Jadeleev]

But Serenas rich and has a whole legacy i think its just her mindset

[@Mayorockks]

Nah man Serena really loves the sport besides she rich

[@chrisgoat3931]

They need Serena don’t compared her n the rest she to big for they to play those games with her. They know who to mess with

[@joshuaantony1975]

Serena just a different breed, basically no one rebounds that fast

[@rhd6639]

Who’s here after she won two more medals in Tokyo? She is the Queen of Track, periodt!

[@susannebemis3311]

and a queen in general!

[@no.5179]

@Wheemoo whats the name? Im broke asf but i want to support it. somehow

[@Chev2k3]

I believe this is a problem with American system overall. Maternity benefits should be a right for all families.

[@theworkethic]

USA is behind. Paternity Rights.

[@priya30081]

USA is way behind some of the developing countries which have better maternity and paternity laws. Lack of women in top executive positions is a result of this.

[@Chev2k3]

@@BLAMBERRY families include mothers and fathers. If you feel good to be comparing the richest country in the world with some of the poorest I really cant speak with you.

[@Chev2k3]

Most other DEVELOPED countries in the world have some form of maternity laws.

[@andrew2155]

I work for Patagonia and I’m lucky that they give parents four months of paid maternity and paternity leave. They also built an on-site childcare center. Even thought I don’t have kids but it’s nice to see that option available and so many of my co-workers taming advantage of it. They also understand if you have to stay home for a sick kid or hVe to leave early for family matters. Nike should take note and follow suit.

[@whenyouwishuponastar6643]

I think it’s very interesting that of all industrialized, western countries, the U.S is the only one that does not have federal paid maternity leave. We’re one of the “wealthiest” nations but can’t make paid maternity leave an option on the federal level? Sad.

[@cindychristian1700]

@tripleheshy Trump and his daughter said 6 weeks paid maternity leave was a promise. Haven't heard a word about it since the 2016 campaign. I never believed it anyway and I didn't vote for him but I know some people really did believed it would happen. I don't know why this so complicated for this nation!

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

@@cindychristian1700 because it goes against the capitalist idea of pay the least to reap the most profit. the only way theyll change that (as a nation) is if there is some way to profit off the policy. google interest convergence

[@canton444]

Washington state recently started the 12 week FMLA with pay. But you and the employer are essentially funding it.

[@ilove2929]

Maybe because of "the wealthiests" think these women were fine without it why should we start paying for it now.... And the excuse passes for generations in centuries, so here they are 😅

[@charlesroberts2166]

Maybe if the Government stopped spending obscene amounts of money on the military you would be able to have a 'free' health system, like we do here in the U.K. Someone, somewhere high-up have got their priorities in the wrong fukin order!!

[@chazhamafunye1626]

Two years later, she went from "one of the most" to the most decorated U.S. track and field athlete in history and most decorated female Olympic track and field athlete from any country.

[@igloozoo3771]

Shelly Anne and others are still greater than Allyson. Allyson didn't live up to her dominant expectations. Many medals and longevity yes. GOAT or Queen of Track? no.

[@roninjanjira9687]

To me they miss a great marketing opportunity. Could have had some ads with Felix being an active mother i.e. staying fit while pregnant.

[@unknown-lf6zx]

They miss a great opportunity to do the right thing. Just do it ...period! Put up or shut up Nike.

[@arimdu1408]

But they didn't .... I wonder why

[@roninjanjira9687]

@@arimdu1408 probably because she is married and not a strong independent single mother.

[@yeetman4953]

@@roninjanjira9687 cringe

[@roninjanjira9687]

@@yeetman4953 why?

[@akankshajain6548]

Nike being shady with female athletes is not okay. I’m boycotting Nike till they bring more moral and ethical business practices.

[@Bleublaze]

😂

[@crystalm4324]

akanksha jain - that’s great, but have you actually looked at the Nike Co. Where their shoes are made, the conditions they make their workers endure for dollars a day? There are plenty of reasons to boycott Nike if you check them out for yourself.

[@Charline564]

Lindsey Nataliah cççc

[@Charline564]

akanksha jain cccccccc

[@Charline564]

Lindsey Nataliah c

[@Richard-lh3te]

This is so shameful. Good on Allyson speaking up.

[@Richard-lh3te]

G do you feel better now?

[@foeshizzel]

Doesn't she just run for a living? Last time I checked a cashier at walmart has job that benefits society more then Felix's does.

[@1NV4S10N]

*NIKE:* Just do it ✔ *Female Athlete:* 👍🏽 *NIKE:* But don't get pregnant because we won't support you.

[@yashk246]

Obviously, Nike is not going to sponsor somebody with a baby and statistics show that most women quit after this. Nike was just doing good business

[@joshuaantony1975]

Bro it was on the contract, she can just not sign it.

[@jenna_maria]

Nike: pretends to care about all kinds of women Also Nike: actually doesn’t care about all kinds of women 🍵

[@mikemcgrath6150]

Does this woman or u care about how Asian workers r exploited as slaves for nike in sweatshops so that she can get paid for sneakers?

[@ryleehelmer42]

Mike McGrath Good one -.-

[@steveasher5352]

Sadly, business and feelings do not mix.

[@husseinmohamed1777]

@@steveasher5352 not feelings but humanity and loyalty

[@carlbyronrodgers]

Nike is a business. So if consumers stop buying their shoes then they will change.

[@adaneboateng]

There you go

[@malekkushimuzik3690]

No, the change will happen when women build their own and compete as true feminists should.

[@klikbate8916]

Some people already are just by watching this video. Not a lot, but it's a start. Movements like these are enough to get people angry and boycott. And if that's what it takes for nike to change, so it shall be

[@carlbyronrodgers]

@@klikbate8916 I fear so.

[@TiffMcFierce1]

Carl Rodgers y’all hear that!?!?!?!?? Wake up everyone

[@kierah6087]

I am happy she is putting her story out there! Her voice will be heard

[@BLAMBERRY]

Kiera H and ignored because no one cares

[@alfredoalcantar8691]

Serina Williams gets paid back by Nike she was pregnant oh wait they care more about tennis then track

[@GreaterThanGodLike]

@@BLAMBERRY jokes on you, I definitely care.

[@humannaturedj]

@@BLAMBERRY i care

[@alyssas1089]

BLAMBERRY obviously you care bc you responded💀💀💀

[@Bella-lx4dk]

So what I learned: *Nike basically sucks*

[@joshuaantony1975]

Nah bro,, these people mad trippin

[@MicahRion]

“If not for myself, for people coming after me.” 🙌🏼

[@susannebemis3311]

you go Ally!

[@niennav.7741]

Just do it!... Unless* * you are a woman who wants to have babies *you get pregnant *Take maternity leave *Breastfeed *Wants to be paid fairly after that *You want to return back to work. But, just do it huh?

[@rich2583]

Fmla gives women 6 weeks paid and 6 additional weeks unpaid. Im failing to see the problem here.

[@alfredoalcantar8691]

She’s not that famous to be asking for money she’s a contract athlete and a full-time

[@niennav.7741]

@@rich2583 and I'm not even surprised to see here guys like you who 'fail to see the problem' I'm sure all man at Nike say the same

[@brucevrodoor4781]

Rich The problem is your a closed mind little mental midget.

[@hikari9433]

Wow good job on changing @Rich mind guys... One piece of advice, if someone say he/she "fails to see the problem", educate that person instead of attacking mindlessly. And we wonder why society is so much divided nowadays...

[@angelsong6490]

AND Nike uses sweatshops still

[@jojobanks8857]

AND so does just about every major company

[@angelsong6490]

Jojo Banks So you’re just going to continue supporting these companies you consciously know exploit other humans? It doesn’t matter how big a company is, there are still many other companies who take pride in using ethics and sustainability in production.

[@jojobanks8857]

Angel Song yea, because the companies that exploit other humans literally make almost everything as far as clothing goes. The best way to not support them is to make your own clothing, otherwise if u buy their things or shop at stores they own (like Walmart) you’re still supporting them. I’m not sure if you just how widespread the practice is, if you did you wouldn’t say “you’re just going to continue supporting them”, you’d actually give me ways that you know how to not support them. You complaining about my continued support doesn’t help anyone that works in sweatshops if you won’t give me ways to actively protest the practice, and ethical companies to support.

[@humannaturedj]

@@angelsong6490 i think if we stopped supporting companies with unethical practices, we'd be left with little to nothing at all. stuck btwn a rock and a hard place

[@angelsong6490]

Jojo Banks I completely agree that the practice of exploiting human labour is so widespread and ingrained into our society. However, that doesn’t mean it’s okay and we should passively accept this as a reality. Personally I have boycotted companies such as H&M, Zara, Nike, Adidas, etc because I just could not consciously support them with my dollar knowing the truth and now I shop with companies who explicitly share their ethic and sustainability policies such as Aritzia, Everlane, and Lululemon. I know they are pricier stores and not everyone can afford them but they also have quality items that lasts for years and I have the peace of mind that workers are being treated a fair wage for something as vain as a shirt for me. Apple and Microsoft use sweatshops and unfortunately I will continue to use Apple because there are no better technology companies that do not use sweatshops that I can use to replace Apple and are of the same quality. Yes, It is hypocritical of me to not boycott Apple and I am fully aware of my actions. Boycotting is a great way to actively protest as every penny you pay a company is proportional to the support your giving as well. I have also written emails to H&M as to why I am boycotting them and would love to write more emails to other companies. None of us can fully avoid sweatshops unless we maybe live in a cave, but I really do try my best to make more moral and conscious decisions in my life.

[@isaacl6402]

This just hit anyone else’s recommended? Dam KZbin tryna take Nike down huh

[@RayMak]

In China, we have Niki, Must Do It! And Abibas, Always Impossible!

[@manujoshi24]

Is this comment objectively funny or is it just me reading this at 4 in the morning?

[@bongimabaso1534]

@@manujoshi24 I laughed at it😂😂😂😂 but also it's 2am I might be sleepy

[@humannaturedj]

@@manujoshi24 it's 8:18am for me, been up for 3 hrs. That comment is hilarious lol

[@kazikazini1042]

The comment is so real. I've come across lots of those fake products

[@highandmightyqueen79]

lol funny

[@izzojunior]

Ally’s been doing it on the track for years great athlete...apparently can’t say the same for Nike...

[@TMM-N]

great athletes like jordan and phelps dont get pregnant.. dont have kids or married. simple

[@SW-nx4jz]

@@TMM-N men can't get pregnant duh

[@dg0210]

Mohammad Nasrul hanif Mohd Noor Although I understand your point to view, I’d wish to state that even if men want to start a family, they can still continue to be an athlete with no repercussions. This should be the same with women, since many want to start or have families, but can’t since the have to carry and give birth to the baby. Plus many like the athlete in the video would like to continue with their career too.

[@DRACOFURY]

LMBAO

[@DRACOFURY]

@@dg0210 so don't get pregnant during the running season...like come on

[@brittanyjohnson2348]

Allyson Felix is very intelligent and beautiful

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

that's what you took away from the story? 🤔 how dismissive is that statement

[@MM-fs7mt]

Wit Compassion calm down it’s just a comment, not every comment has to be something significant 😑

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

@@MM-fs7mt calm down? eat one.

[@nicholasmaniccia1005]

@@jusletursoulglobaby You tell them, this is exactly what's wrong with the world, you are making the world a better place one youtube comment at a time.

[@ChemistrywithDrB]

Guess I won’t be buying any Nike merch anytime soon.

[@joshuaantony1975]

y not lmao

[@laurentl714]

Don’t be fooled people. Nike was never about doing what’s right but doing what makes money 💰 Nothing new here. They support athletes only if there is a return for them. This is not a Nike issue, it’s an issue with the government in place.

[@CharlesBeast]

Yes. Nike only supports athletes because there is a return for them. Just like athletes only endorse Nike because they get paid.

[@ryleehelmer42]

Yep.

[@lebarodea2467]

The main thing for them is making sure we're seeing their little swoosh on everything.

[@nthatomalope]

This is gaining momentum. These companies need to start acting right.

[@rich2583]

Man you dont even know tf you are upset about. Outrage greviance culture on full display in these comments. Would you pay for an item at a restaurant you didn't eat? Or for an article of clothing you wont be able to use at a department store? Now replace yourself with nike and hopefully you can understand their position a little better.

[@malekkushimuzik3690]

@@rich2583 Exactly. And these feminists are phony. If they really were about equality and fair treatment, they would build their own and compete. We all know that isn't going to happen. They want special treatment.

[@zach9222]

MALEK KUSHI MUZIK man stfu you think these woman can just make their own company no Nike runs track and field if your not with Nike it’s impossible to get ahead

[@lamontyrulez]

It’s corporate America F y’all thought 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@joshuaantony1975]

@@zach9222 Even if she joined nike her argument was this: Nike allows men to have full careers, but women get the boot if they try for a baby. WELL OF COURSE LMAO WE DONT GIVE BIRTH

[@cherleze4790]

I'm glad I came across this. Not buying Nike products ever again

[@susiq1121]

You'll have no sportswear to put on, cuz all the major sports brands are not budging on this issue yet with female athletes

[@steveasher5352]

There are millions of others who will though

[@DemiMee]

It would be interesting to hear other brands stand on pregnancy rights to

[@AoibheannDoyle-SoulTherapist]

No more Nike. Cannot believe this is happening in 2019.

[@TheReelkingman]

I don''t buy NIKE anyway. Good Luck ladies time for a change

[@FMsukina]

Thank you Alysia Montaño and Kara Goucher for inspiring me to never purchase and/or support Nike and/or Asics until they make serious changes to mat protection!

[@FMsukina]

You've missed the point, @K C, but you're absolutely right. I hope I'm not the only person who will boycott.

[@joshuaantony1975]

y r u boycotting?

[@benban8055]

Nike: Don't Do It *That's Our Terms & Conditions

[@Fifthelement203]

Corporations do not care about people. Only bottom line. This is why regulations, unions, and collective bargaining is important. The repubs try to convince you that regulation is bad but ALL regulation came About because there were blatant abuses and exploitation’s that needed to be addressed. So miss me with the BS

[@Mr_Magoo_]

A free market is the answer. If you don't like your company then work somewhere else. It's not really that hard. Some people are just born pissy.

[@leoneranger9348]

Yes, know your employment history and you'll know you cannot expect the free market economy to give a crap about equality. We do need regulations and oversight. And these athletes need bloody good lawyers and agents and show no brand loyalty until it's earned by their sponsor.

[@Phornax7]

@@Mr_Magoo_ people are an expendable resource in a free market economy. Workers are constantly sacrificed to squeeze out just one more dollar. American is rife with examples of free market solutions dripping in blood. Here's just one: www.cnn.com/style/article/radium-girls-radioactive-paint/index.html

[@phil6748]

This is in a lot of American businesses. It’s shameful.

[@TheNanoPhysicist]

Well no more Nike products for me...

[@toppmax]

I dpnt think that's the answer we should all rally around the athletes and get in Nikes face. remember its not just Nike they all do the same thing

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

its not just Nike. it's the industry so are you done with all athletic apparel?

[@BLAMBERRY]

Doubt they care......

[@PoliteStewartJr]

@leicanoct Actually, boycotts work quite well. Businesses always respond to financial losses. Unfortunately, not enough people ever choose to stand for something...

[@PoliteStewartJr]

@leicanoct I completely agree. However, that means the principle is sound. It's just the players aren't willing to show up.

[@dothedeed]

She's so HUGE in track Im kinda shocked this would happen to her.

[@TheLilly]

@@rich2583 After this while video, you didn't get anything from it? Bless your heart!

[@MeredithAnne88]

I'm very proud of these women. Thank you for standing up and speaking the truth to power.

[@Nub1anPrincess]

Not purchasing another Nike product until women athletes are fully respected. #DreamMaternity 🎖

[@mikemcgrath6150]

Dont politic ur baby, its shameful. And dont buy weaves neither bc most if the hair comes off the heads of exploited Asian and Indian girls who dont see a fine. U see the chris rock movie?

[@unknown-lf6zx]

Me either. It wasn't just maternity leave, the nike distance camps under Alberto Salazar regularly body shamed women and drove them to health issues with threats

[@stopcheatingconsumers9779]

I was an endurance runner 3 years ago. Absolutely not a professional track star. I miscarried twins. I've never recovered. I understand the difficulty pain from comming back. I keep doing it.

[@BLAMBERRY]

No Wire Hangers! Ok...and?

[@azureavocado5195]

❤️🦋Hope ur doing ok these days

[@HIGHqualityEmma]

The only countries that don't mandate Paid Maternity Leave are Papua New Guinea and the UNITED states of America. Woahhhh.

[@sharathvasudev]

Technically it should be all countries. Why should a company pay for a decision a woman made in her personal life. That's loss to company. All companies think objectively to maximize profits. What profit do they get from paying you woman. It's sounds inhumane but corporates don't provide room service

[@saraha8305]

I’m gonna boycott Nike until they do something to fix this

[@Daph2023]

All the women need to stand together, not buy Nike products for ourselves or anyone. We moms, wives buy our loved ones clothing, so we can put a dent...Stop buying Nike products. We women give life to all boys and girls who grow up to be men and women. All women make a difference..and it starts with the seed growing in our womb. If we stop buying, the world will listen. All men have a mother. Think of her. Stand up for her. No Nike strike!

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

ok I'll keep saying this.. it's not just NIKE doing this. ALL brands do this. so while you're talking boycott be sure to fully understand the problem first. Adidas, Reebok, Asics all of them have the same type of policy and clause

[@heavyhanded1782]

Daph enie cry me a river.... I like how you didn’t mention anything at all about how the man should be able to take off for the baby too... so I say again cry me a river

[@SolaceMcfly]

Do you know how many women it would to not buy nike products for Nike even to care?

[@Gina-Montana]

Wit Compassion ok I’ll keep saying this... it doesn’t matter. If NIKE changes, then ALL brands will have no choice but fall in line. Nike’s policy change will essentially portray them as the knight in shining armor. Believe me, Adidas, Reebok nor Asics want to be know as the caveman of sporting gear.

[@Gina-Montana]

47 til infinity apparently it didn’t take much because here we are one week later and word is that they are, in fact, making policy changes.

[@foggyfrogman1]

I won’t buy Nike and that’s my voice via dollar.

[@jasmineskyy4964]

They changed their contracts

[@imwoke8341]

You say it but there sale go higher every time you say you not buying

[@Lil_refresha]

There are multiple reasons not to support Nope.

[@StewNWT]

As a university decathlete I’ve always been a huge admirer of you Alyson for many reasons from your beautiful and smooth running style to your persistence in continuing to work and achieve your dream of winning the Olympic gold in the 200 m. Your intelligence and activism particularly on this issue which I as a doctor and very acutely aware of is yet another reason I look up to you. Major kudos from Canada

[@esteehanvey5647]

I read a story about her in a children’s magazine called Highlights when I was probably 10 or 11. She inspired me so much

[@daljitkaur7787]

Thank you for sharing this.. As a mother myself, I'm boycotting Nike

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

its not just Nike. all of the brands have similar policies and clauses. are you going to boycott all of them?

[@daljitkaur7787]

@@jusletursoulglobaby If it is brought to my attention then yes

[@Homeboy8227]

@@daljitkaur7787 lol that's the main issue with Americans. They wont research for themselves, personally I dont see the big deal with maternity leave, but waiting until it becomes mainstream is a part of the problem.

[@rich2583]

@@Homeboy8227 we have maternity leave in america. Its called FMLA. Six weeks paid and another six unpaid. sound like YOU didn't do any reasearch, huh?

[@Homeboy8227]

@@rich2583 idk as I mentioned prior I dont believe in maternity leave so I wont involve myself in it. But from my understanding, fmla just guarantees that your job is there for you when you return, not paid leave sooooo

[@sunnylilme]

If men had to squeeze a watermelon out, and make milk..this wouldn't be an issue.

[@kbs8586]

Derek Lowe it may not be a all woman crew. But women will be there. More if there wasn’t work discrimination. And what does that have to do with the topic at hand anyway. We need Women to have a baby, we just want them to be poor as a punishment for it?

[@adlerzwei]

sunnylilme you sexist 🐖.

[@clooperdooper391]

@@kbs8586 i dont believe they should be paid the same amount during their birthing periods because thats not how a business model in any company works-u get paid if you make the company money but when women are pregnant for the 9 months they dont generate revenue for the company so a salary cut is fit in this situation but i strongly disagree with big brands like nike pushing their athletes out of their prime for choosing to have a baby it should be something like a 6 month gap added to the pregnancy duration to help their athletes get into prime conditions to perform again

[@Marklee-lx7cd]

@Alex Meggoe nobody is asking for full pay maternity leave they are just asking for resuming their career from where they started before pregnancy like any normal person and get same amount of money

[@charlielrambo1342]

@Derek Lowe if you are an employer you will see the discrimination when it comes to construction and women. Believe me, many want to, they just have to prove something that men dont.

[@DaniAlexandria]

👏👏👏👏 all I can say to this is THANK YOU ! Thank you for shedding a light on this. Thank you for risking your future earnings to stand up for what you believe in. Thank you taking charge in a fight so future generations are better off. Just thank you! You are so brave . I hope for nothing but the best for you and your family 💕

[@satiraalythia]

This is a real issue on feminism yet little has been done

[@blitzswan2042]

Love you Allison, you’re so inspirational and I hope this message gets out

[@latoyajoslyn8116]

If Serena says the same thing then the men would listen. She has the star power to boost.

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

the impact isn't there for serena. her hubby is loaded so she might not have cared. these women have a different type of financial security structure

[@daniella8400]

Wit Compassion precisely! Serena has a lot more money than track & field stars

[@serenayale9729]

Latoya Joslyn Serena already spoke about this

[@KennnnyT]

Didn't Serena lose to a japanese tennis player and blamed a man for it? Why would guys listen to a man hater?

[@dionnegregory3836]

Serena doesn't have the power. She's painted as a angry black woman. However she has her husband that makes money moves.

[@KellieAlston]

This video made me get emotional. Tears welled up in my eyes by the end. To think that such a lucrative company would punish women or dismiss them for bringing life into the world is daunting. I just cannot explain how this makes me feel. However, I am so glad that these athletes decided to speak about an issue that I never knew existed in such a prominenr company.

[@bulouvusonawalowalo1711]

God bless you Alison Felix, Alysia Montano for your courage and wisdom to stand up against Nike.

[@MiVidaBellisima]

This is sickening. I applaud these women for the courage to stand up and speak out! I’m sure other companies will quickly follow trend as well.

[@sentillaMary]

Good for her!!

[@jaelenemachado]

She’s my track and field idol I literally love her so much

[@charlottesmith7279]

So proud of you Allison..stand up for what you believe

[@ajx9747]

Switching from Nike...

[@ColtWorks100]

@leicanoct exactly! And none of them should because these athletes ARE NOT EMPLOYEES

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

check out the original story bc you're missing the point. it's not just Nike. and in their contract it essentially penalizes and stops paying them for pregnancy even if they are still competing. the contractor statement below does not apply.

[@numbers7n]

SPguy They are sponsored by Nike. Nike is out selling clothing and gear off the sweat and labor of these athletes, AND making commercials about women’s empowerment, equality, etc... but then denying them contracts/sponsorship when they get pregnant,,, and their agreements don’t allow the women to speak up about it. It’s shameful. Nike will do the right thing. Give them a couple of months to solve it. The other sponsors will follow suit or they’ll lose their endorsement and sponsorship contracts with these athletes. Adidas might even give better terms and try to grab athletes from Nike.., This could work out very well for all future female athletes. Good on these women for speaking out!!

[@priya30081]

Switching to what? They are all the same.

[@canton444]

Switching from Nike...to barefoot? Adidas, New balance, and all other major shoe companies are doing the same.

[@Meechooilka]

OMG!!! I am so happy this discussion has been raised! And I am so happy women are speaking up!

[@LilKimRobot]

I met her years ago at a track and field event and she was so cool & humble. Good to see her standing up for herself.

[@knowthetruth276]

Careful Nike... if the black community reject your products you are finished.

[@jamesl9371]

The USA 🇺🇸 needs universal health care. And maternity leave. And affordable education and affordable housing!

[@huldatachiri9613]

Where is that money coming from???

[@abel6135]

Oof

[@inthediamondsky]

@@huldatachiri9613 It should be coming from your top 1% and government, who claim they're broke but then roll around in money just because they can.

[@bossaddict08]

Dino, you’re up in the night

[@jamesl9371]

Tax the rich and you can do a lot. Other countries do it

[@jamesl9371]

America’s corporations are about profit for shareholders and not about doing good things for ordinary people

[@martynkal.1248]

Thank you for standing up for yourself and for others.

[@impiXXX]

wow so you're telling me NIKE does what it does for PR and brandimage and not out of conviction and the good of their hearts????im SHOCKED!

[@Elle-eq4hy]

I'm so proud that these two women are coming after Nike. her and Alysia are so brave.

[@boltup5566]

My wifes boss said..."it's not my fault you got pregnant!".

[@Marklee-lx7cd]

That is disgusting you should file a complain

[@Mena_ce]

Connor Pearson Cuz it’s true when ur pregnant ur weaker and useless

[@Kristrea]

Awesome! I've always admired Alysson but now t even more respect to her. I'm so proud of you speaking up.

[@zggomez7572]

So proud of you! Women United We Stand! I passed on and will continue to pass on buying Nike snickers (and all Nike products) until they rectify the maternity policy to cover you and your babies.

[@1RobertSmith]

Nike was built on basketball shoes. It's gonna take those ballers to show solidarity with these women for anything to change

[@jabbedcrab]

This is very informative. I don’t know why, but I always thought that once you get pregnant, working out, or like something as intense as marathon running would be dangerous for the baby. It’s really sad that a brand as loved as Nike (and many others) doesn’t offer maternal protection. It’s totally not fair that women athletes in these contracts are put into positions where they either choose their career or a family. Things need to change!

[@jomohector5274]

LOVE YOU ALYSON FELIX YOU AND SHELLY ANN FRASER ARE THE ABSOLUTE BEST, I THINK ALL YOU GUYS AND SERENA WILLIAMS SHOULD GET TOGETHER AND TAKE THIS ISSUE TO THE HIGHEST LEVEL. SHELLY IS BACK CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU BACK ON THE TRACK!

[@mommymarine1756]

We fought for similar reasons in the Marine Corps pertaining to time with our child after childbirth. I hope you ladies get the contract changed soon. Congrats on your baby girl and CRUSHING that last race!

[@aleezameansjoy]

I'm honestly confused, do any sponsored athletes get paid if they're unable to perform?

[@lamdao1242]

Is Colin Kaepernick playing for anyone right now or since 2017? What about Tiger Woods before his comeback? I understand that need for athletes to perform. In other countries, women get pregnancy leave and maternity leave and you can't reduce their pay. Only in America, there's no maternity leave is there?

[@malekkushimuzik3690]

@@lamdao1242 Colin was a big virtue signal and nothing more. What a joke.

[@tyson4044]

What about in other sports like soccer If and player decides to have a child great that's wonderful yet she her position is open What if her replacement playes better then the orginal player.... Dose the orginal player keep her job?? I think in some sports the position you got your self to through hard work and dedication isn't a right... There are many people doing the same to get position is it fair for them to wait or should they have the opportunity to replace you ...

[@wasabisazzdafirst]

im so glad that prominent female athletes are speaking out on this. way to go!!

[@holgerrode7014]

Thanks for speaking out. The public needs to know this. After hearing what happened to you and to Mary Cain, I will definitely try to figure out which sports company has a good balance between ethical practices, women to men ratio of employees and management, and product quality before I make a purchase. Again thanks for sharing, the public needs to know these things. Money & greed shouldn't rule the world.

[@lequartermilereyler3375]

How do you think Nike should protect itself from paying a person who is no longer bringing revenue because he/she made a personal choice which hinders their marketability. Nike is a business folks and not the government.

[@cookieaddictions]

Le Quarter Miler eyler and the US is the only first world country on the planet without federally mandated paid maternity leave. Nowadays most multi billion dollar companies (like Nike) have a paid maternity leave policy. And they do. They just refuse to extend it to their female athletes who make a big difference in their advertising. They are being cheap and have unrealistic expectations from people who are basically their employees.

[@lequartermilereyler3375]

@@cookieaddictions Ok, Thanks for the education. I didnt know.

[@candicew.1096]

Come through Ms. Allyson!

[@PHlophe]

black women taking hits for every one. this is what all types of local and foreign athletes will enjoy

[@Ahopek]

And this male-run, double standard, kicking-women-out-in-their-prime issue extends so far beyond the sports industry.

[@fredjones5396]

They aren't kicking anyone 'out'. They just don't want to pay them for a year while they get themselves back into shape. What, you want them to keep paying them for 3 years even though they don't perform at the same level?

[@poca723]

Well she’s inspirational and motivational. She had a tough pregnancy and her baby needed to be in Nicu and yet with her motherly and spouse duties she still made it back to run and take her position back in track and field in 6 months. Very inspirational to other women. we can do anything regardless of our obstacles.

[@jazzyjones6375]

I am a black man with a black daughter, I applaud these brave women for stepping out speaking up. This is for the future security of black female athletes and others.

[@jg.9694]

Dang I am not buying Nike anymore.

[@jusletursoulglobaby]

it's not just Nike doing this. it's all companies in the industry

[@jg.9694]

@@jusletursoulglobaby that just makes it even worse.

[@imwoke8341]

People are always quick to lie

[@elreydelmundo1343]

You didnt buy Nike to begin with, shut up.

[@no.5179]

*throws pumas into the air* MY SHOES FOR LIFE!!!

[@djJinjiny]

this is so crazy im heart broken. i am big nike and track and field fan huge!! hearing about this is so disappointing

[@Native-Kitty]

I had no idea this was going on. This is dead wrong! Thank you Allison Felix and all the female athletes that spoke out about this issue. As they say... “The revolution needs to be televised.”

[@james35813]

What, specifically, is she trying to get put into her contract? "Maternity protections" could mean anything.

[@Iquey]

Simply put it's usually "don't for me for getting pregnant or needing the healthcare that comes with being pregnant." Pregnancy is part of life and society and it's so funny how capitalists always wanna cut corners and then white boys complain about the birth rate going down. Like take a seat. Birth rates will go up when people feel safe to have children, abundant in resources and hopeful about the future, and not when they're forced to and not when it impoverishes them or destroys their bodies.

[@rich2583]

She wants an outlandish amount of paid time off. Fmla already gives women AND men 6 weeks off paid and an additional 6 weeks unpaid

[@Marklee-lx7cd]

@@rich2583 she got paid 70 percent less after pregnancy and this is not about time off

[@GearZNet]

Mark Lee what are her performance metrics before and after her pregnancy? Also, what trends are Nike looking at to evaluate her worth as -70% after a pregnancy?

[@riverrebel1]

Just do it! (but make sure you don't get pregnant)

[@GearZNet]

Make sure you don’t get pregnant thus rendering our contract compromised due to being unable to participate or perform at relative compacity to when we contractually signed you on.*

[@mariej.richard5114]

Nike is aweful when it comes to this

[@jujununya9182]

Why didn't they just embrace her pregnancy? Have her shoot some ads and commercials promoting fitness while pregnant??? A lot of women think they need to take it easy and lay around while they're pregnant, but it's best to do light exercise. That would have been genius!

[@crybaby_claire]

I'm so glad these women are speaking up for their basic rights! Being an athelete should never take away the most universal joy of having a child.

[@BLUEGENE13]

i don't know where people get the idea that simply because something is a nice idea, like maternity leave that we can just have it, that someone out there simply owes it to us. The world doesn't work like that. If you maternity leave then it's gonna cost something on the other side of the equation.

[@robertjordan9075]

Bravo, we all have a mother and should never forget how much we need them and should honor them.

[@LenaBeellc]

Thank you for speaking out!

[@namesjames1]

Now write an op-ed on the girls who work at applebee's.

[@kierah6087]

What's going on with that?

[@orangefield2308]

@@kierah6087 the girls are discovered to be racist !

[@Peculiarsoundent1]

Don’t run from this Nike....just do what’s right

[@ms.andrea172]

So proud of you to stand for something so important!

[@LiwaySaGu]

GO GO GO GIRL!!! Thank you for your heroism!