Mo Barrett

Right in the midst of a rabid discussion of affirmative action in the United States, a world sporting event will capture global attention: The FIFA Women’s World Cup. On July 20, thirty-two teams of elite athletes started competing in the top tournament in the world; two remain. It’s an opportune intersection; the composition of national sports teams proves that, by itself, meritocracy is often not diverse. Arguably, elite sports are as meritocratic as it gets.

Dear Conservatives: I think you might be right. We on the left have been rushing forward with what we see as important social and economic imperatives, but you may (justifiably) feel like you’ve been run over. Time and again over the past five to six years I have heard you: You feel ignored. And you’re mad about it. So let me begin by saying that I agree: We on the left have not been listening adequately or sympathetically.

Part II While you pick the orange pulp out of your teeth, let’s recap the first half. (If this reference baffles you, you might want to start with Part 1) Ary Borges plays soccer for National Women’s Soccer League’s team Racing Louisville Football Club in Louisville, Kentucky. She also plays fútbol for Brazil’s Women’s World Cup team, playing at FIFA 2023 in Australia and New Zealand.