In an effort to quell last season’s controversy over political signage at games, Major League Soccer announced Tuesday it had approved a new fan code of conduct. The guidelines, which will be in effect for the 2020 season and were developed with input from supporters and civil rights groups, will prohibit the following:
• Displaying signs, symbols, images, using language or making gestures that are threatening, abusive, or discriminatory, including on the basis of race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, gender, gender identity, ability, and/or sexual orientation.
• Displaying signs, symbols or images for commercial purposes or for electioneering, campaigning or advocating for or against any candidate, political party, legislative issue, or government action.