So by now you are well aware that Colin Kaepernick chose not to stand during the National Anthem in last night’s Niners-Packers preseason game. Following the game, the 28-year-old released a statement in which he attributed his decision to the oppression of black people in America–“There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”
His decision was met with ire from Victor Cruz to military personnel to this average joe who burned his Kaep jersey. The majority of people saw it as an entitled move by a millionaire athlete and a slight of those who suffered for this country. Some saw it not as a personal rebuff on military members but a brave critique on our nation’s ideals and principles.
Whatever your stance, it’s uncomfortable enough for this country to have a discussion on these nuanced issues especially in the age of hyper-sensitivism. When you bring politics into an arena that’s solely intended for entertainment, it’s going to be met with disdain–kinda like bringing the kid with a cold sore to the blunt circle. I guess it all comes down to one question: how badly you wanna smoke?
Here are some prominent athlete reactions to Kaepernick’s decision, starting with the negative.
New York Giants offensive lineman Justin Pugh:
I will be STANDING during the National Anthem tonight. Thank you to ALL (Gender,Race,Religion)that put your lives on the line for that flag
— Justin Pugh (@JustinPugh) August 27, 2016
Former Broncos offensive lineman Tyler Polumbus:
Activists changed USA for better but have to associate Nat Anthem w/ military that die for ur right to protest. Stand up. Find another way
— Tyler Polumbus (@Tyler_Polumbus) August 27, 2016
Former NFL QB Matt Hasselbeck:
https://twitter.com/Hasselbeck/status/769519704008429568
Cincinatti Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert:
Former MLB infielder/outfielder Aubrey Huff:
This guy is a joke. Get lost. You don't like it in a country that has given you opportunity to succeed? Then get out https://t.co/Dwssw2I1zA
— Aubrey Huff (@aubrey_huff) August 27, 2016
Wow the amount of people who agree with sitting during the national anthem is truly disturbing! we wonder why our country is in the toilet?!
— Aubrey Huff (@aubrey_huff) August 27, 2016
St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Mitch Harris:
https://twitter.com/Mitch_Harris2/status/769557304568086528
Now the positive.
Miami Dolphins running back Arian Foster:
the flag represents freedom. the freedom to choose to stand or not. that's what makes this country beautiful. … https://t.co/Ev5D9ACe78
— feeno (@ArianFoster) August 27, 2016
he has the right to choose not to stand. just as you have the right to disagree with his stance. round and round we go.
— feeno (@ArianFoster) August 27, 2016
you can't be be selective and dictate what freedoms this country stands for. you're free to have any religious/political views you feel.
— feeno (@ArianFoster) August 27, 2016
Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn:
The easy thing to do is to make fun of Kap and his play. How about trying to understand where he's coming from….but that would be too hard
— Adrian Clayborn (@AJaClay) August 27, 2016
He can't stand up for his people because he makes millions….so ignorant and narrow minded.
— Adrian Clayborn (@AJaClay) August 27, 2016
Former New England Patriots offensive lineman Damien Woody:
Kaep has every right to express his feelings/beliefs and ppl have every right to disagree. That's ok folks!
— Damien Woody (@damienwoody) August 27, 2016
This is what comes with a free society, unless ppl hate democracy
— Damien Woody (@damienwoody) August 27, 2016
Former Giants running back Tiki Barber:
Kaep is using his platform & brand to make a compelling & polarizing point, which is his right, even if it's met with ire!#idontagree
— Tiki Barber (@TikiBarber) August 27, 2016
[h/t FTW]