U.S. fencer Race Imboden has revealed the inspirational role his mother played in his decision to protest President Donald Trump by taking a knee during a medal ceremony at the Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, on Friday.

On Mondays broadcast of CNN Tonight, Imboden recalled reading a social media post from his mom saying that its time to use your voice right before walking to the podium as part of the gold medal-winning foil team.

And I couldnt think of a better time to use my voice than when I had just succeeded and won a competition and was at a moment that really for me is the pinnacle for my happiness, the 26-year-old told host Don Lemon .

Imbodens mother was proud of what he did, he added, although now a little nervous and definitely a little worried.