SMPA Panel on Sportswashing

Around the world, one of the most popular ways for governments to receive favorable press about their nation is through sport. Whether the Qatar World Cup in 2022, the Russian 2014 Winter Olympics, LIV Golf, or the numerous governmental owned teams in major leagues, sportwashing has become commonplace. The question then is this: how should the media cover these teams and events?

This panel will discuss how sportswashing can affect athletics globally. The panel will address the topic from three angles. Professor Youmans, through his work on Middle Eastern Politics and Global Journalism, will speak to the geopolitical reasons for sportswashing, and its use as a political tool. Professor Nelson, with her background in sports media, will speak to the journalistic side of these events, and what considerations are made when dealing with sportswashing. And Avril Silva, an international athlete with the Venezuelan National Women’s soccer team who is also an aspiring journalist at SMPA, will speak to the athlete perspective of sportswashing.

Panelists will include:

• Professor Will Youmans
• Professor Kelsey Nelson
• SMPA Student and Women’s soccer player Avril Silva

This event will be moderated by National Council Member Chuck Todd

When: April 2, 7pm
Where: Fifth floor studio