A Final Statement from Project World Cup Spotlight
 
The Games Have Ended. The Work of Humanity Continues.

As the World Cup concludes, we are reminded that it was always about much more than sport or the colors of each country; it was a global celebration that brought together people from every corner of the world to prove that we could peacefully co-exist.

These people brought with them the richness of different faiths, races, cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds, philosophies and lived experiences. For several extraordinary weeks, we opened our cities, our countries, our lives and our hearts to all they represented. We welcomed them with fanfare, enthusiasm and pride. We celebrated the very diversity that makes our world extraordinary.

Yet, during this same period, people within our own borders have continued to be feared, demonized, detained and rejected because they represent many of the same differences we so proudly welcomed from abroad.

That contradiction cannot be ignored.

Our message to the world following the World Cup is simple: Sports is not the only force capable of uniting us. When we recognize that we are united by the fundamental tenets of humanity, every day can become a celebration. Every difference can become an opportunity to witness, understand and grow. Every culture can be a breath of fresh air, illuminating all that makes our world vibrant, colorful and abundant. Every person can be recognized as part of our collective heartbeat.

The joy, unity and openness displayed during the World Cup should not disappear now that the
stadium lights have gone dark. The compassion extended to an international athlete, supporter or
visitor should also be extended to the immigrant, the refugee, the neighbor, the worker and the
family seeking dignity, safety and opportunity.

The games have ended, but our shared responsibility has not.

In everything we do—here in the United States and across the globe—never lose sight of one
enduring truth:  The World Is Watching.