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(09-20-2018 04:46 PM)WMUslappy1 Wrote:  

(09-20-2018 03:06 PM)broncofan1 Wrote:  

(09-20-2018 02:56 PM)brovol Wrote:  

(09-20-2018 12:11 PM)broncofan1 Wrote:  Anyone who thinks kneeling during the anthem is protesting "the flag" is just a fool.

It isnt protesting the flag; it is outwardly disrespecting the symbol of American liberty, and those who we recognize and honor by standing at attention during the anthem, including those who risked their lives by declaring independence against a power who was limiting freedom, and all those who have defended the same principles thereafter, either by serving in the military or otherwise.

To suggest that this is a "good" way to protest is suggesting that the flag or the anthem are insignificant, or unworthy of being held in the high regard that, at least in my mind, they should be. Some things are sacred.

I would argue that they don't feel the power structures are living up to the ideals posited by the flag and anthem. This is their best - most visible - option.

Have you ever engaged one of the protesters? Asked them what they are doing and why?

You must know that Kaepernick chose to kneel (as opposed to sit) at the recommendation of a veteran. That kneeling shows reverence and isn't meant to disrespect.

It wasn't until Fox News and Trump decided to make this an issue of patriotism that this became 'offensive'.

I won't defend some of Kaepernick's other choices (socks, statements about police), but have absolutely no problem with this form of protest. It hurts NOBODY.

I guess we have it all wrong. When its announced, "please stand for the singing of the National Anthem", we should instead kneel. Got it!

What gets lost in this... is that players weren’t even required to be on the sidelines for the anthem until 2009 when a defense department initiative paid the NFL to make players be present in some sort of effort to force a patriotic view. Before that players weren’t even on the sidelines for the anthem... which if I’m the NFL I just go back to that! Can’t cause an issue either way If they aren’t even on the field!