Colin Kaepernick Refuses To Stand For National Anthem: This country oppresses black people.

Colin Kaepernick

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is making headlines, after sitting during the national anthem before Friday’s preseason game against the Green Bay Packers. The QB explains why, stating:

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. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.

He added,

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.

49’ers have responded,  issuing a statement on Kaepernick’s decision.

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 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.

Do you agree with his decision to protest the national anthem? 

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