Stanisland Magazine

Nike dropped Australian runner over misinterpreted Pro-Palestine comments

Professional Australian runner and activist Grace Tame was dropped by Nike after speaking out against Israel’s atrocities in Gaza. Widespread speculation was mounting as the athlete removed all references to the brand from her Instagram profile.

Tame is a staunch advocate for Palestine. In May last year, she spoke at an event for Australian Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN), where she said: “Empathy should have no boundaries.” But this isn’t what Nike is referring to. She has also appeared publicly wearing a t-shirt that bore the statement: “F**k Murdoch.”

READ MORE: Gal Gadot Say’s “It’s Not Fair” in Response to Anti-Israel Sentiment

Despite happening almost two months ago, the news has started to circulate social media. Here’s what really happened.

Gaza Comments

Nike accused the athlete of antisemitism—despite no evidence to support their claim. Tame reposted a statement by Mohammed El-Kurd regarding the shooting of officers at an Israeli Embassy in Washington DC. It read:

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“Even though it was undeniably, and by the alleged shooter’s own admission, a response to the ongoing Israeli assault on Gaza, which killed one hundred and seven Palestinians in the last 24 hours alone.”

Nike Releases Statement

The sportswear giant then released a statement:

“Nike does not stand for any form of discrimination, including antisemitism. We take this matter very seriously.”

“Grace and Nike have mutually agreed to part ways. We wish Grace the best as she continues her running journey.”

However, Tame’s own words relay a different message. In it, she said:

“We’re watching an accelerated genocide unfold before our eyes in Gaza, where innocent women and children account for around 70 per cent of the rising death toll. Many of our so-called leaders with the power and platforms to act are inert, apathetic, or worse, aiding and abetting…”

More to come…