The U.S. women’s national soccer team.Photo: Action Foto Sport/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Before they defend their title at the upcoming World Cup, all 28 players on the United States women’s national soccer team will be taking a stand for equal pay.
On Friday — the same day asInternational Women’s Day— the championship-winning soccer team filed a federal gender discrimination lawsuit to the U.S. Soccer Federation, according toTime.
In the lawsuit, which was filed in Los Angeles federal court under the Equal Pay Act and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, all 28 female players claim that they are not paid equally to the men’s national players.
They also allege they have experienced “institutionalized gender discrimination,” despite having the same job responsibilities.
The female athletes, includingAlex Morgan, Crystal Dunn andCarli Lloyd, are now seeking equal pay and treatment, as well as damages, such as back pay, the outlet reported.
The U.S. Soccer Federation did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
Action Foto Sport/NurPhoto via Getty Images
In a statement issued toTime, Morgan, a forward for the soccer team, said taking a stand on gender equality came with the territory of being a professional female athlete.
“Each of us is extremely proud to wear the United States jersey, and we also take seriously the responsibility that comes with that. We believe that fighting for gender equality in sports is a part of that responsibility,” she said. “As players, we deserved to be paid equally for our work, regardless of our gender.”
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After negotiating contracts, the women settled on a four-year agreement in 2017. They also were given raises in base pay and bonuses, as well as better travel and accommodation services,Timereported.
The women’s national team last won the World Cup in 2015. They are set to defend their title at the 2019 World Cup in France on June 7.
source: people.com
