Before last night’s Niners-Packers preseason game, Niners QB Colin Kaepernick chose not to stand during the national anthem.
Colin Kaepernick did not stand during the National Anthem – my picture provides proof. https://t.co/NZ2OIceBxA
— Jennifer Lee Chan – threads @jenniferleechan (@jenniferleechan) August 27, 2016
Although it is not the first time Kaepernick has refused to stand up during the anthem this offseason, people took notice and the 49ers felt that they had to release 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 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 to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.”
Kaepernick, who has been vocal about social issues on social media, released this statement on why he is protesting the anthem.
via NFL.com
I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color,” against Green Bay. “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.”
The NFL has yet to comment on Kaepernick’s gesture.