Why Do Some NFL Players Kneel During the National Anthem?

As the 2017 NFL season gets underway, a new controversy has arisen surrounding some players’ decision to kneel during the national anthem. Here’s a look at why some players have chosen to take this action.

Introduction

Since 2016, a growing number of NFL players have been kneeling during the national anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality. The movement began with then-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who chose to kneel during the anthem as a way to raise awareness about these issues.

The act of kneeling during the anthem is a form of peaceful protest that has been used throughout history to peacefully resist injustice. For some NFL players, kneeling is a way to use their platform to fighting against racial inequality and police brutality.

Since the movement began, it has facedcriticism from some who feel that it is disrespectful to the flag or to the military. However, many players have clarified that their protests are not meant to be disrespectful, but rather meant to raise awareness about important issues facing our country.

As the movement continues, it remains to be seen what impact it will have on both the NFL and on society as a whole.

History of kneeling during the national anthem

Kneeling during the national anthem became a symbol of protest against police brutality and racial inequality in 2016, when then-San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick first took a knee during “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Since then, other NFL players have joined Kaepernick in kneeling or raising a fist during the anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality, including former 49ers safety Eric Reid, Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett, Chargers offensive tackle Russell Okung, free agent wide receiver Brandon Marshall and Eagles safety Malcolm Jenkins.

NFL players weren’t the only ones to protest during the national anthem in 2016. National Basketball Association players such as LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony also spoke out against police violence. WNBA players wore black shirts reading “#BlackLivesMatter” during pre-game warmups. And several soccer players, including Megan Rapinoe of the U.S. women’s national team, have taken a knee during the national anthem.

Reasons why NFL players kneel

There are many reasons why NFL players may choose to kneel during the national anthem. Some players may do so to protest police brutality or racial inequality, while others may do so to raise awareness of these issues. Still others may kneel in solidarity with teammates who have been subjected to discrimination or mistreatment. Whatever the reason, kneeling during the national anthem is a powerful form of peaceful protest that has sparked conversation and debate across the country.

The NFL’s response

The NFL released a statement in 2016 saying “Players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the National Anthem.” In response to President Donald Trump’s criticism of players who choose to kneel, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said Trump’s comments “demonstrate an unfortunate lack of respect for the NFL.”

Many NFL players have chosen to kneel during the National Anthem as a form of peaceful protest against racial inequality and police brutality. While some believe this is a sign of disrespect to the flag and country, others see it as a powerful way to use their platform to fight for justice.

Players who have chosen to kneel include Colin Kaepernick, Michael Bennett, Marshawn Lynch, Arian Foster, Eric Reid, and Jurrell Casey.

The public’s response

The public’s response to the protests has been mixed. Some people have said that the players are being disrespectful to the country, the flag, and the military. Others have said that the players are exercising their right to peaceful protest and that they are bringing attention to an important issue.

Some NFL fans have boycotted the league or stopped watching games because of the protests. Others have said that they are more likely to watch now because of the protests. NFL ratings have declined in recent years, but it is difficult to say how much of this is due to the protests.

People who support the protesters say that they are bringing attention to an important issue: police brutality and racial inequality in America. They say that the protests are a form of free speech, and that players should be able to kneel if they want to.

People who oppose the protesters usually do so for one or more of the following reasons: they believe that it is disrespectful to kneel during the national anthem, they feel that it is unpatriotic, or they think that athletes should not get involved in political issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is evident that there are a variety of reasons why some NFL players kneel during the National Anthem. While some do it to protest police brutality and racial inequality, others do it to show their support for the military and first responders. Ultimately, each player has their own personal reason for kneeling and we should respect their right to do so.