Washington Spirit

United States

Washington Spirit is a professional women’s soccer team competing in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) and based in Maryland. The team is committed to promoting women’s soccer and community engagement, playing a key role in the growth of the sport in the United States.

CCI Score

-13.57

0.01% May 3

Latest Event

Michele Kang's Record Donation to U.S. Soccer Federation

Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang donated $30 million to support the growth and development of women's and girls' soccer programs in the U.S., reflecting a strong commitment to women’s empowerment and community investment that challenges oppressive structures.

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ENABLER

Washington Spirit is currently rated as an Enabler.

-10 to -19 CCI Score

Companies in this segment facilitate authoritarian practices while claiming neutrality. They provide resources or support that indirectly bolster oppressive regimes, thereby undermining democratic accountability without overtly endorsing the regime.

Latest Events

NOV

19

2024

Michele Kang's Record Donation to U.S. Soccer Federation
76.46

Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang donated $30 million to support the growth and development of women's and girls' soccer programs in the U.S., reflecting a strong commitment to women’s empowerment and community investment that challenges oppressive structures.
+80

Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility

March 19

The donation is a significant act of community investment and ethical responsibility. By channeling $30 million into U.S. Soccer’s women's and girls' programs, Kang supports the development of female athletes and leadership, promoting diversity and inclusion. This counters the patriarchal and often oppressive trends associated with authoritarianism and reinforces anti-fascist values.

Michele Kang makes record donation to USSF women's soccer programs
NOV

05

2024

Political Donations by Sports Team Owners Raise Concerns
-66.65

A Guardian investigation reveals that owners across major US sports leagues, including NWSL teams such as Washington Spirit, have heavily favored Republican contributions. This trend raises questions about the political influence and complicity in advancing policies that could undermine democratic norms.
-70

Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts

March 19

The Guardian report details that sports team owners, including those of NWSL franchises like Washington Spirit, are channeling significant funds to Republican causes. This pattern indicates support for political agendas that can align with authoritarian practices, raising alarm over the influence these contributions may have on democratic processes.

US sports owners make huge political donations. Which party does your team’s give to?
JAN

27

2022

Controversy Over Political Donations and Internal Dispute
-50.51

An internal email from Washington Spirit co-owner Steve Baldwin highlighted grievances against fellow co-owner Michele Kang, notably referencing Kang’s political donations, including contributions to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Such donations raise concerns about the team's potential complicity in funding authoritarian political figures, posing risks to democratic values.
-70

Political Contributions and Lobbying Efforts

March 19

The email detailed by Steve Baldwin cites Michele Kang’s political donations, specifically noting contributions to a controversial political figure like Governor Ron DeSantis. In an anti-fascist lens, such financial engagements are deeply concerning as they potentially empower authoritarian leaders and undermine democratic engagement. This action, reflected in the political contributions and lobbying efforts, earns a significantly negative score.

Steve Baldwin airs Michele Kang grievances in email to Spirit investors