Over the past few weeks, the practice of so-called "civil disobedience" among some NFL players has dominated the news headlines. Beginning with Colin Kaepernick, players have begun a movement to not participate in the National Anthem to bring awareness to racial profiling in the United States. Now, I have never been one to openly share my opinion or stance on certain subjects, but I am EXTREMELY disappointed in the participants and supporters of this movement. There are other ways to stand up for what you believe in. I am so thankful and supportive of each of our nation's troops, cops, firefighters, generals, officials, etc. Each individual who has put their life at risk for the well being of this country deserve immense honor and respect.

Is racial profiling an issue in the United States? Of course it is, just as it is every where else. Is racial profiling only targeted at a single minority ethnic group? Absolutely not. Racial profiling occurs among ALL ethnicity groups, ALL shapes, ALL sizes, ALL professions, and BOTH genders. We live in an unjust world that is not going to change perceptions over night. The media plays an exceedingly dangerous role in this situation, dramatizing the extent of the issue, provoking the attitudes of the general public. Bringing awareness to specific issues is not a bad thing. However, protests such as these are a mere invitation to more riots and violence, disrupting peace among others. Once people of today's society get past the point of playing the victim, we as a nation can move closer to closing the racial gap. Until then, these protests will continue, damaging the nation's reputation and creating a wider gap in inequality.

I don't believe that this act should be considered civil disobedience, but rather a blatant disrespect to a free, generous nation that offers more opportunities than anyone could ever imagine. To not acknowledge the National Anthem or presentation of the flags is not only disrespecting this country, but also every single individual who has fought for the protection of our freedom. There are other countries in this world that discriminate FAR worse than anything the United States has ever seen. Simply hearing the National Anthem pulls my emotional strings. I will never understand how someone could purposely disrespect a symbol so important, and be perfectly contempt with it.

This is the land of the free and the home of the brave.

I am beyond proud of the country that I live in and I am proud to be an American. I don't believe I could ever express my gratitude enough to those who have sacrificed so much to ensure my freedom.