American pride quickly turned into an opportunity to taunt and express insensitive remarks about history. Can’t we celebrate a major victory without acting a fool on social media?
Soccer fans across the country won’t forget this year’s Fourth of July weekend. Many gathered to observe our nation’s independence and cheer on the U.S. women’s soccer team at the 2015 FIFA World Cup. Scoring four goals in 15 minutes — including a historic hat trick by Carli Lloyd — the United States has become one of the most successful women’s soccer teams, with three World Cup victories. This is a remarkable achievement that continues to unite many soccer fans and sports lovers.
The ladies’ electrifying 5-2 win over defending champion Japan captured the attention of many — including President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden, who attended the match with his wife.
What a win for Team USA! Great game @CarliLloyd! Your country is so proud of all of you. Come visit the White House with the World Cup soon.
— President Obama (@POTUS44) July 6, 2015
Even celebrities like Justin Timberlake and Beyoncé took to social media to express their joy.
USA! USA! USA!!!!!!! #USWNT
— Justin Timberlake (@jtimberlake) July 6, 2015
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There was even a special moment between veteran player Abby Wambach and her wife, Sarah Huffman (a former team member), as the two shared a kiss.
Sweet photo, post #USWNT victory: @AbbyWambach kisses her wife, now respected nationwide http://t.co/We2DeD89ktpic.twitter.com/71OrRKE0Ug
— Freedom to Marry (@freedomtomarry) July 6, 2015
With so much to celebrate, chants of delight quickly turned into tasteless opportunities to dredge up past hurt. Pearl Harbor and Hiroshima were trending topics on Twitter, as many jumped on the chance to post insensitive comments. “The U.S. is out here droppin’ bombs on Japan,” wrote Cloyd Rivers. “Seems fair.” “Japan this is for Pearl Harbor,” Jake Recoon tweeted.
Soon others began referencing the chilling surprise attack that claimed the lives of more than 2,500 people.
https://twitter.com/AmirPasic1/status/617842231131676672
https://twitter.com/GageCullen/status/617837035810754560
https://twitter.com/JGenzy/status/617841561766875136
Thankfully these crass comments did not go unanswered, as tons flocked to Twitter in response.
#prayers for victims of #PearlHarbor who's memories are being diminished by football hooliganism today. Using dead of wars is disgrace.
— Natsuo Niimi 夏生新見 (@Toppojuri) July 6, 2015
For all of you making #Pearlharbor references, Japan has been an ally of the US for over 50 years now. LET IT GO.
— sUM RAndom dude (@sUMRAnd95502582) July 6, 2015
Good people of Earth… Please disregard the stupidity of those that are calling this revenge for #PearlHarbor.
— Andrew Edwards (@andrewhedwards) July 6, 2015
I’m all about a good laugh but do think people should reconsider what does and doesn’t cross the line. Referencing Pearl Harbor and the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki really are in poor taste. Can we not get through a sports match without taking low blows and, in some cases, racial digs?
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