Im sorry, but not standing for the Star Bangled Banner is something kids do at high school assemblies to protest injustice they learn about in their social studies classes. While I do applaud and admire Colin Kapernick, San Francisco 49ers Quarterback, who has taking a stance against “the oppression of African Americans by the police and others,” by kneeling during our National Anthem performed prior to the start of football games. Kapernick kneeling during our National Anthem is not enough.
Eric Reid and Colin Kapernick kneeling during the National Anthem.
The NFL supports white supremacy, which is evident in their league policies. Also evident through their lack of action. Never taking a stand against police brutality or any other form of racial discrimination towards African-American men, which make up 67% of the league.
Roger Goodell, Commissioner of the NFL.
I find it hard to say I am against white supremacy, when I support the NFL by tuning in most Sundays, Mondays, and Thursdays.
I find it laughable that any Black people think that they are against white supremacy, while fully supporting a league that reinforces white supremacy.
Now, if Kapernick kneeled during the actual game, and refused to play, that would be a very powerful message. Not just him, as it would take the majority of the Black players in the league to sit out of games, in order to have an impact.
Black players threatened to sit out, if the University President did not resign, due to his inaction against racism on campus.
They were able to get the President ousted.
Unfortunately, the chances of that happening are slim to none, partly because Kapernick is treated like a hero. Which sends the horrible message that kneeling for an anthem and still playing in the game is enough.
If Black players want to take a stance against racial injustice they need to shut down their leagues, which relies so heavily upon their athletic abilities, which cannot be duplicated by any other group of people on the planet.