Many NFL football players, such as Colin Kaepernick, have been silently protesting during the ‘Star Spangled Banner’. The players have been kneeling, linking arms, and staying off the field while the song is being played. What should be done? Football fans, including President Donald Trump and his supporters, have many mixed emotions about the protest. As do many other Americans.
Why are the players protesting? In an interview, Colin Kaepernick stated, “I am not going to stand up to show pride to a flag that oppresses black people and people of color.” Many other professional athletes protest as a sign of unity as a team, including local NFL and NBA teams, such as, the Indianapolis Colts and the Indiana Pacers. In some instances, teams are divided with some players standing and others kneeling; while in other instances teams are kneeling together as one.
People's opinions on this matter have resulted in heated debate, with both sides very passionate in what they believe. President Donald Trump has added to the discussion with statements that have infuriated many people. His tweets have portrayed his disapproval of what he feels is the disrespect of our nation’s flag. He tweeted, “NFL attendance and ratings are going way down. Boring games yes, but many people stay away because they love our country. League should…show more content… Many in support of the protest argue that being forced to stand is violating their first amendment right. Trump supporter, Sam Cunningham, stated in an interview, “This is a first amendment issue and the president is supposed to uphold that right.” However, other people claim that it is disrespectful to people, in military service, who have sacrificed their lives for this country. As a result of players kneeling, many fans have chosen to boycott the NFL but not attending games and choosing not to watch on TV. This could later cause financial repercussions to teams and their
