Ann Coulter Says Soccer is the Bane of America – Really

By Zainab Chaudry

Soccer is the bane of America’s existence. At least, conservative syndicated columnist Ann Coulter thinks so. Her latest column mocks and ridicules one of the world’s most popular sports – attributing the dramatic spike in soccer fans in America over recent years as “evidence of our nation’s moral decay.”

As someone who recently publicly called for organizing of “death squads for the people who wrecked America” if immigration reform passes, it’s ironic that Ms. Coulter considers herself an expert on analyzing the cause of our nation’s moral decay.

If we are to embark on this discussion, let’s begin with Coulter’s rampant racism and xenophobia that inspires hatred and fear towards peaceful, law-abiding immigrants across the nation. Because if we are to break down how ludicrous her beliefs are on the “moral decay” caused by American soccer fans, we must first look at her twisted thoughts on immigration. After all, she begins her column by saying:

“If more ‘Americans’ are watching soccer today, it’s only because of the demographic switch affected by Teddy Kennedy’s 1965 immigration law. I promise you: No American whose great-grandfather was born here is watching soccer. One can only hope that, in addition to learning English, these new Americans will drop their soccer fetish with time.”

So, before we point fingers toward the causes of our society’s detriment, let’s focus on the ethics, morals and values of self-proclaimed patriots like Ms. Coulter, who’s loathing of “the other” has blinded her to the fact that Europeans were once immigrants too. And let’s not let Coulter forget that this great land we call home was founded after the ruthless, systematic genocide of Native Americans – its original inhabitants.

According to Coulter, we have Senator Ted Kennedy to thank for the influx of immigrants who have flocked to our shores and polluted our nation. After all, he pushed forward the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, which opened America’s doors to immigrants from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

What she blatantly fails to mention is the fact that the vast majority of immigrants are hardworking taxpayers whose tax money supports American troops, enables a global U.S. military presence and funds vital federal and state programs that improve Americans’ quality of life. She is too blinded by her narrow-minded, myopic views to recognize that many of these folks are contributing members of society who are doctors, teachers, heroes, researchers, first responders, and so much more.

The fact that she has the audacity to recklessly announce “no one whose great-grandfather was born here is watching soccer” indicates how little she values her own word.  No one who cherishes their credibility would dare make inaccurate blanket statements like this knowing that many generations of Americans have long been soccer fans carrying on the family tradition of following the sport.

Ms. Coulter proclaims soccer fans at home are “new Americans” who will “hopefully drop their soccer fetish and learn to speak English.” Her ignorance knows no bounds. Clearly, what Ms. Coulter craves is attention. Sadly, obnoxious generalizations like this are offensive not only to America’s immigrant population, but also soccer fans and all people of conscience.

One can only hope that, in addition to learning a modicum of respect for soccer enthusiasts and immigrants, Ms. Coulter doesn’t drive a Japanese car, wear Italian shoes, frequent Mexican restaurants, or prefer French perfume. Otherwise, in addition to her list of other unflattering attributes, she must also be labeled a hypocrite.

And the only thing worse than a racist bigot is a racist bigot who is also a hypocrite.

Zainab Chaudry is the co-founder & chair of the CAIR Maryland Outreach Office, a steering committee member of the Interfaith Action for Human Rights and IAHR Liason, Shoulder-2-Shoulder.