We all know the recent tragedies that have happened in our country with the cop violence and the racism that is turning our nation against each other. There are ways to make a difference or stand up for what we believe in. However, some people are sitting down for what they believe in, and that is NFL San Francisco 49ers' quarterback Colin Kaepernick.
During an NFL preseason game on August 26th, for the opening ceremonies, Kaepernick refused to stand for the national anthem, which has stirred up the professional football league community.
"I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick stated to the NFL media after the game. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."
However his decisions will not go unnoticed and Kaepernick understands that there may be some repercussions for his actions. The NFL, 49ers, and fans have made statements about his recent doings and not all have been positive towards his beliefs.
"The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pregame ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose and participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem," the 49ers stated post- game.
The NFL released a short statement on the situation. "Player are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the national anthem. "
Kaepernick is not the only sports superstar to make a stand for civil rights recently. NBA's LeBron James, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, Dwayne Wade and WNBA players have all acted to make crucial points that our country does need a change. Other NFL players are backing up Kaepernick as well, but not so much with the coaches and executives that run the league.
However none of the above other mentioned athletes did anything to disrespect the symbol of the United States of America. This will without a doubt land him in disapproval for lots of people, as well as get him new fans that are avid supporters of this movement. Kaepernick does not care about any of that though.
"This is not something that I am going to run by anybody. I am not looking for approval. I have to stand up for people that are oppressed. If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right," he said.
Is Kaepernick in the wrong for disrespecting the American flag or is he justifiably making a statement that others with his star power and status should be attempting to make as well? Regardless he is standing up, or "sitting down," for what he believes, which is more than most people are doing with how thin-skinned and sensitive our country has become in 2016.
