Why are people not standing for the pledge of allegiance? What is the reason?
Hey there…I love people who are interested in current events. 🙂
Well, this all started August 26th, when an NFL player named Colin Kaepernick knelt during the singing of the National Anthem, rather than putting his hand over his heart.
He said he planned to continue his protest and that he would not “stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.”
He has received an incredible amount pressure, along with boo’s from hecklers, and people condemning his actions as being anti-American. He says, “I’m not anti-American. I love America. I love people. That’s why I’m doing this. I want to help make America better. I think having these conversations helps everybody have a better understanding of where everybody is coming from.”
He has since gained support from others like teammate Eric Reid, who now takes a knee. Reid has said, “It touched close to home and I just wanted to show my support to him and let him know that he is not the only person who feels the way that he feels. There are a lot of people out there that feel that way.”
President Obama has even chimed in saying, ““I think he cares about some real, legitimate issues that have to be talked about.”
The protests have even inspired some high school football teams to take a stand. Coming out of Aurora, Colorado the idea came from several players who approached their coaches to ask permission to do so. A player said, “You can’t continue to slap people in the face and not expect them to stand up. When Kaepernick kneeled, he gave us an outlet. He gave us something to do.” The coaches gave their support, and the school district issued a statement saying it would respect their actions. “Any time young kids can speak their minds, it’s always good”, said their coach.
This of course doesn’t come without conflict as it hits many in the wrong way, saying this act is done out of ignorance and disrespect, especially for those who have fought in the military.
However, there is no argument that this protest is bringing light to a topic that is stirring up conversation. One of the players from Aurora said, “I’ve seen police brutality up close and personal,” he said. “To family members. To friends. To myself personally. It’s like, if nothing else will stop it, maybe silently protesting will do something.”
Obama also said of Kaepernick, “And if nothing else, what he’s done is he’s generated more conversation around some topics that need to be talked about.”
So there you have it…that’s why people have decided to not stand for the pledge of allegiance.
Thanks for writing in!
Love,
Auntie Manda
