Source: Stephen Dunn / Getty
Colin Kaepernick took a stand at a preseason football game last week by sitting during the playing of the national anthem. When asked why he didn’t stand he said,
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color….to me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way.” The SanFranciso 49ers issued a statement,
“The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the freat liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as a freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose and participate, or not, in out celebration of the national anthem.”
This comes after online controversy with Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas refused to place her hand over her heart during the playing of the national anthem. The world of sports feels very strong about race relations in the country that they represent. From WNBA players being fined for wearing t-shirts for the losses of Police officers in Dallas and supporting Black Lives Matter to LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Dwayne Wade standing up for police brutality, using the platform that you have really makes a difference.
Source: NFL.com
