Colin Kaepernick has done it now. His recent acts of protest – as expected – have many “patriotic” Americans going mad. In an effort to call attention to various injustices in society, particularly police brutality, Kaepernick, a national football league player, takes a knee and refuses to stand for the national anthem at the beginning of each his games. Sportscasters and analysts have talked about this incessantly and the protest has grown with many athletes of different levels and sports joining this call to action. As we all know, the American flag which waves during the singing of the anthem has long symbolized ‘liberty and justice for all.’ However, many believe this symbol is unfulfilled. The chorus of “he’s disrespectful to our military”, “he should leave the country”, “he should lose his job”, and worse, speaks volumes about the folks who think he is dishonoring a flag in a country where he makes millions of dollars to play football. To me, I see the opposite; Kaepernick is honoring the ideals of the flag more than all of us.
To those who proclaim to be protecting the honor of the flag by condemning Kaepernick, it would be nice if they consider a small thing called perspective. I wonder if they have ever considered how they’re disrespecting the flag? I could begin with the fact that if they’re not standing up in silent reverence, hand over their heart, tear in their eye, everywhere and anytime they hear the national anthem (even in their home), they may want to rethink their critique. Plus, when did the military become the lone representation of patriotism in our country? Are “regular” citizens not able to express these ideals of freedom? Colin Kaepernick is within his rights to not stand for the national anthem. He is not in violation of any law but is simply choosing to not participate in a custom. One is disrespecting the honor of this country by telling him he doesn’t have a right to not observe a custom. Although his objectives are vague, it is obvious that Kaepernick is touching a nerve. He has caused Americans to discuss race and resistance. He has people reconsidering patriotism and protest. Most importantly, he has challenged all those who condemn riots and destructive protests with a simple nonviolent gesture expressing an opinion that America isn’t living to its highest ideal.
This issue (that is still unfolding) is one of the key challenges this country faces; finding a normative definition of freedom. Customary expressions of freedom are a societal norm but it is also a relative paradigm. See, freedom is quite fluid, assumed by the majority yet elusive for the minority. It has a subjectivity that’s as abstract as it is tangible. Since the beginning of our country, certain groups have maintained and controlled the norms and definitions of society, mostly to their benefit. But, in this day and age, in a society that’s freer than it’s ever been, many are challenging any norms that make them feel less than American. Critics of Kaepernick need to recognize that freedom means different things to different people and the flag represents an American right to pursue the purest form of freedom. If one’s feelings are hurt by his nonviolent gesture, they should explore why. Kaepernick is exercising the fullest expression of the flag by thoughtfully demanding more from it. By trying to subjectively limit what (and who) the flag stands for, his critics are the ones who are disrespecting it and limiting its potential. We ALL own this symbol thus we must always pursue its highest ideals.
Honor OUR Flag: The Challenge of Colin Kaepernick
Well said. Thank you.
Thanks, Pamela
Why have so few NFL players joined him in this much needed form of protest? Are athletes afraid to stand up for oppressed people?
Although this would be much more powerful collectively, this is what Kaepernick has chosen to do as an individual. Others can join along or they may have decided to protest in ways that they feel is more appropriate for them.
I definitely agree with what is being said here. The flag represents so much more than just a symbol of the military, and most veterans would agree with that. People protesting Kaepernick have no real understanding of the issues he is protesting or the freedom he has to protest. Kaepernick is a role model for justice, and his protesters are fighting against one very important thing that the flag does represent- freedom.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
“Most importantly, he has challenged all those who condemn riots and destructive protests with a simple nonviolent gesture expressing an opinion that America isn’t living to its highest ideal.” what do you mean by this Dr. Howard? I don’t want to get the wrong idea…..
Hello “Mr/Ms. Pizza” :). It means others cant choose how one protests. What message were you receiving?
I agree. Fine work Dr. Howard.
Thanks, Demetri
I agree with this article because I feel like everyone can express their rights and freedom however they want. Whenever people are expressing themselves in different ways, others should try to understand why they are doing something a certain way. Some people may think somethings are disrespectful but to others, it is their way of showing respect and people should see it from the other perspective. Everyone has different values and different ways of expressing themselves. People should try to change others or discourage them from what they believe in. Instead, we should learn to accept others’ values.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I see Keapernick as a horrible figure head for a just cause. I believe his motives to be more attention focused than civil rights focused. Recently he was “demoted” to the second string and has been caught wearing socks with cops depicted as piggy. SMH
I appreciate your comments, Thomas. Unfortunately, not everyone is going to agree with the messenger. Id be curious to know your feelings on his donation of one million dollars to various social causes. Would that act be helpful in changing a perception about his socks? (As well, you do know there is a local football team with “disrespectful” imagery depicted on their uniforms too, right?). Thanks for your honest perspective.
People should not be hated on because they express their belief on the system. It doesn’t mean that people hate the country, it means that the structure of the country needs to be fixed. This country was made by taking people from their land and putting them onto reservations, it was built on slavery and racism, so it’s time for people to speak out on the injustice of the structure of the system.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I believe that there are a lot of people in this nation who are discriminated against for one reason or another. They do not have the freedom and justice this country claims to have for all people. What Kaepernick did is starting to raise more awareness of this issue, and people who want to believe this nation is equal do not like that.
Yup, you got it Maria! Thanks for sharing.
I think this a strong argument and i agree with it 100%
Thanks Yonathan
I agree with your statements
Thank you.
I really enjoyed reading this post and I agree 100% with what the author had to say. People have been on far sides of the spectrum, and many of them do not have a true argument as to why they are on the side they are on. This blog would really make someone question why they really dislike Colin Kaepernick’s decision, and make them go out of their comfort zone to address the underlying racism in America.
Thanks for sharing. Yes, we must come out of our comfort zones.
I think what Colin Kaepernick did was brave and smart.He created awareness and expressed his felling.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
By getting angry that Kaepernick took a knee, people are showing they don’t fully understand the American values. Freedom is an extremely important part of American society, freedom of expression even more so. Kaepernick is exercising his right as a free American by taking a knee in protest of recent events. Being an American is not about a flag or an anthem it’s about having the right to express yourself without fear of repercussion from the government.
Thanks, Tyrie. I agree with you, how do you condemn ones right in a free society to protest?
I think what the football pa;yer did is very remarkable. He expressed his opinion through out the nation in a way he can. He believes there is inequality in this country and his protesting to spread awareness.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
i think you bring up some good points, like how he simply isnt participating in a custom. i believe what this whole country is allowing everyone to do what they want. Kaepernick does not want to stand for the national anthem, that is his decision. i think to respect that flag is to respect his decision to kneel during the national anthem. and although you might not agree with him and believe he is in the wrong it doesnt hurt you so why would you bother him.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
People have the right to make decisions such as sitting or standing for the national anthem. Last time I checked, America is supposed to be all about freedom and I believe choosing how to see a symbol and respond to it falls under freedom.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I disagree that Kaepernick’s critics are hypocrites if they don’t honor the anthem every time. The patriotic tradition only involves honoring it at certain occasions, and it it is important that Kapernick is defying a patriotic tradition. I agree with the point that all Americans must be allowed to engage in nonviolent protest in order to stay true to our democratic ideals and truly honor our country.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
Yup, nonviolent protest.
I respect what Kaepernick is doing. He has made people realize what is going on around in the U.S. Although most people might have had an idea of the police brutality towards people of color, Kaepernick made it clear that is was happening and that is was unfair to the black community. “True american patriots” need to realize that this is not okay under any circumstances and they also need to realize that Kaepernick is protesting in such a civil manner that he is not hurting anybody he just pointing out the injustice that is going on in the country. This has caused a lot of controversy because it is not the norm to take a knee while the national anthem is playing. I believe the patriots who are trying to turn Kaepernick’s action to something terrible should stop and think why he feels so passionate about this issue that has made him take a knee during the national anthem.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing, Yasmith
this is really a big issue, we can’t call America a free country after these awful things that happen everyday.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
Here in the U.S we have the freedom expression, and I understand why people are upset about Kaepernick’s act of protest, but no one is being physically hurt, if you don’t like it, then don’t pay attention to it, just focus on the game. I’m sure Kaepernick has no hard feelings towards our military, and neither do I. I respect their bravery and courage. But there is a lot of injustice in the U.S. for people of color, and someone(s) need to stand up for it, or else no one will.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
Honestly, people will wave a flag when telling someone to leave the country but they can’t handle Colin Kaepernick trying to raise awareness for issues that do not concern them. If America is truly the place of freedom, then someone who is trying to improve equality should be able to do so.
I appreciate your perspective, Halle. Thanks for sharing.
Kaepernick has the freedom to sit down or go on his phone during the national anthem yet instead he choose to “take a knee”. By doing so he is not disrespecting the flag, in fact I feel he is honoring it and using his rightful American freedom of expression to raise awareness for social and justice inequality. These “patriotic” Americans are furious about Kaepernicks’ use of freedom of expression which is ironic because he is using his given right, I mean he could be burning the American flag if he wanted to.
Well, I think you were being facetious because burning or talking on the phone during the anthem wouldnt be an ideal form of protest. His silently kneeling speaks louder than any perceivable disrespectful act would. Thanks for sharing.
Colin Kaepernick is doing the right and with all the “patriotic” hating on what he is doing it just shows more flaws America has.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
i agree that many Americans don’t see whats been happening and why he took a knee , American only look at it from their perspective
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I completely agree with article. The article gives a holistic approach to the entire issue. People need to acknowledge that in a way, not standing for the flag, is a form of freedom. Americans are proud of being diffrent and this protest shows how much America values freedom of speech and expression. Standing up for the flag or not are two forms of patriotism.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing, Zenab
YASSSSSS took the words right out of my mouth. Anyone that has a problem with his nonviolent protest need to gtf honestly they blow me so much. He is not breaking any kind of law but doing what the law says he can. He was the freedom to do what he wants and he is using his fame to get out a big message and bring attention to the injustice in America towards black people. And that attention is very much needed because someone people are too ignorant to see that the rate that black people are being killed is outrages and we need justice. People should actually praise him for doing it in such a nonviolent way he is teaching people the right was to protest and it is truly amazing. He should not be looked down at or lose his job he deserves the attention he is getting.
Thanks for sharing Hanna #Yasssss 🙂
At first I was conflicted I thought that taking a knee during the national anthem is a break of custom and is indeed disrespectful and even if someone wants to protest ( justified protestation) he should not disrespect everyone as has been said by critics but I clearly agree that he has the right to do it and from this perspective this action does not seem so offensive anymore.
Thanks for sharing. Its okay to feel conflicted when we see a norm being violated. I think thats why this act is so powerful.
I feel that critics should first leave behind their own ethnocentric ideologies before being able to accurately and publicly critique the reasoning behind someone else’s acts of protest to social injustices that may not directly apply to them.
I appreciate your use of the important word, ethnocentrism. People should take this perspective into consideration.
By taking a knee, Kaepernick is not only pointing out a flaw in what the flag and the American culture claim they stand for, he is also non-violently making an attempt to fix these flaws. By him doing so, it only shows how truly patriotic he is and those against his decision must consider that being a true American means exercising “liberty and justice for all.” Being a true American means not only admitting that there’s flaws within their culture but also doing whatever it takes to get rid of them.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I agree with what you’re saying. If they’re mad at Kaepernick for taking a knee, refusing to stand and “disrespecting” the flag, they should be mad at themselves for disrespecting the flag by not standing up, hand over their heart, etc. instead of getting mad at someone who doesn’t agree with society views on the flag.
I appreciate your perspective, Taishima. Thanks for sharing.
“Why can’t people protest peacefully”
Kaepernick kneels during national anthem
“No, no, not like that”
Ben, #YouHitTheNailOnTheHead
I believe that you should stand up and respect the flag when the national anthem is spoken. But Dr.Howard is 100% right in what he says. People see the meaning of the flag differently, which is what leads to this conflict over taking a knee.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I agree with Kaepernicks type of protesting and the reasons why he is kneeling during the national anthem. But I also believe that Kaepernick, and many others, could protest in the form of bringing people together instead of creating division and separation. We could protest by coming together and holding hands for example to symbolize people joining and solving the issues at hand together. In the end, I think that Kaepernick was very smart in his decision of what form of protest to use because it brought a lot of publicity to these issues and maybe other forms of protest wouldn’t have had the same effect.
Thanks for sharing, Ellie. I agree that unification is the goal but the purpose of protest is to make people uncomfortable about an issue. I think that is what he has been doing with the conversation that has started.
I liked your point that the military shouldn’t be the only symbol of patriotism in America.
Thanks for your comments, Garrett. You dont have to wear a uniform to love your country.
I feel like its very interesting to see this side of the perspective. & frankly i complexly agree with not only the blog but also with the thought that Kaepernicks rights were justifying his opinion. There is no reason why he isn’t allowed to not participate i the custom. its his belief and his right. its completely constitutional
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I agree with your point of view of this issue. Everyone in this country should have the right to express their beliefs in any way they see fit. It shouldn’t be judge because the person has different beliefs than others. I believe Kaepernick is doing the right thing to show his beliefs to the world like he is doing. It is his right to do so why not expect it?
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I’m very glad that i was fortunate enough to read this blog in this perspective. I also agree with Kaepernick and believe he has all the right to stand up to what he believes is not valued the way it should be. This blog made me realize just how Dr. Howard said that everyone has their own thought and perspective of value, worship and respect towards the national flag and anthem. That for those who are judging this man to standing up for his beliefs, are also disrespecting this country by violating the freedom every individual has in this country. Everyone has the right to value and protect their beliefs but should that mean that they should deteriorate what this country mainly offers to its citizens, to yank away our individual freedom?
Thanks for sharing. You are right on point. We must protect our individual freedom.
Dr. Howard, thank you for writing your insights into the issue. It never really occurred to me how important the fluidity of freedom is in the Kaepernick debate. I think it sort of makes me even more confused why these people would have the backlash that they do.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
This is an insightful and eloquently written post. I found it interesting when you said that Kaepernick’s objectives are vague. I myself am not too educated about the issue, but most everyone I have talked to draws a connection between Kaepernick’s kneeling and race. Do you believe that Kaepernick has some kind of ulterior motive that doesn’t concern race?
Ulterior motive? Nah. When I mention that his objectives are vague Im speaking to the fact that we dont know what it is specifically that he wants to see changed. Eradicating “injustice” is not a realistic objective. He needs to be more definitive with what he feels “change” looks like. Thanks for your comments.
I agree with Colin Kaepernick. We shouldn’t have to show pride to a flag of this country that tyrannize people of our color.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I definitely agree with these thoughts 100%. Many people say not standing for the flag is disrespecting all the people who fight for our country, but those people are fighting for our “freedom”, for our right to protest. I think that some people don’t realize that because of race, one’s experience in this country may shape how you feel about your country, and if you don’t feel like you are being treated fairly it is important to seek change. Not standing for the flag isn’t unpatriotic. I think it is very patriotic to see the faults in your country, and wanting change so it can be the best country it can be.
Thanks for sharing. I agree; social change does not occur without some resistance.
i think they made a point here by saying since when did the military became part of the united stated flag?. I mean i would agree this way of protesting is the saves way because he is not hurting anyone and more people need to understand how he is not disrespecting the flag for the reason that we are not force to stand for the national anthem. I think the people that are telling him to stand up for the national anthem are violating the rights of him as he has the right to protest for what he think is injustice.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
This article teaches a lesson on perspective really well. Many are quick to assume or criticize those who go against societal norms or ideas yet they don’t realize the reason why. I agree with how Colin Kapernick isn’t disrespecting the flag. Like you said, unless those who critique Kapernick’s actions stand in silence and are full of “patriotism” every time they hear the anthem, then they need to rethink how he’s disrespecting the flag. In my opinion, he is doing the exact opposite. He is showing in a respectful way how to stand up (or in this case, kneel) for what you believe in.
I appreciate your comments. Thanks for sharing. #PerspectiveMatters
I agree. By protesting, he is not violating any laws or hurting anyone. He is exercising his right to free speech.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
“Freedom s assumed by the minority but elusive for the minority” beautifully sums up in my opinion the argument of why he is even kneeling in the first place.
Thanks Christian!
Great concept. It’s true that this simple act of protest is a given right in the US. If and when people disagree, that is their decision, and there is nothing wrong with this either.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
Here’s what I think…
In my personal opinion I believe that Colin Kaepernick is doing nothing wrong whatsoever. The American Flag stands for freedom and justice for all but doesn’t it all stand for our rights and liberties such as our right to protest? Isn’t that all Kaepernick is doing? There are always going to be contradicting points of views and beliefs in this country it’s just never going to change. There are so many cultures, races, and ethnicities in this nation that it’d be strange if we didn’t disagree on subjects like this. All I’m saying is Kaepernick could have done so many other things, harmful things, to get his point across but he chose the most civil means possible and we should at least acknowledge that. I think many people are making a mountain out of a molehill with this subject but than again maybe I just don’t have that fire burning passion for America like others do. I met a boy from Ireland the other day who goes to Towson University currently. I asked him how he likes the U.S. and he said, “I like it a lot but I think Americans are too sensitive…” I’m starting to think he might be right. Then again I’m only seventeen and don’t have a degree in anything so what do I know.
Thanks for sharing. You might be right, Americans can be a little sensitive.
I exactly agree with this sentiment. To my understanding, Kaepernick does not intend to disrespect the United States military, and it is a stretch for anyone to draw that comparison. His intention is to draw attention to the idea that the country is not living up to the ideals expressed in the anthem and symbolized by the flag.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing, Mae.
i agree with this and think that people have different ways of expressing themselves and not everyone will see these ways of expression since we might not show that feeling to certain people.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I agree with what he is saying and that we all interpret the flag differently, the norms shouldn’t affect the different actions of others who aren’t “acceptable” as they say. Well said.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
You talked about perspective and I think that’s a very good point but the article is bias and doesn’t even mention the other perspective, although I’m not personally offended by his protest I can see why members of the military and their family’s could be upset.
Thanks for your comments “John Doe” What is the other perspective you are speaking of? In my opinion, there are many perspectives on the topics of patriotism and freedom.
I think this post offers a generally convincing argument for Kaepernick’s anthem protest. In particular, the post offers a cohesive and understandable explanation of the message behind the protest, an explanation I think would effectively diffuse much of the anger targeted at Kaepernick by those who draw their own conclusions and rationale for his protest. My only criticism is that much of the post focuses on a binary view of patriotism (Kaepernick is more patriotic, critics are less patriotic) that is an ineffective and incomplete position when projected by either side of the issue. Patriotism and love of country are not tied inexorably to anthem practices, and I think discussion of who is or isn’t patriotic in how they interact with the flag takes away from the larger point.
Hello Ben. The post wasnt about who is or who isnt patriotic. The piece was written to highlight that patriotism and freedom are subjective positions thereby disproving the binary thinking you mentioned. Thanks for your comments.
It was very interesting to hear both Mr. Currence and Dr. Howard’s perspective of how they view the flag and how they view Kapernick’s actions. I agree with Dr. Howard though, that protesting the flag is showing American values just as much as standing for it is. But it is interesting to see how deep culture affects how they view Kapernick.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I utterly agree with you Dr.howard, Colin Kaepernick has the right, choice, and most importantly the freedom to not agree with the american custom.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
I thought this was a very well thought out and eloquent blog post, I agree with all the points you raised here and you introduced me to other sides of the issue that I hadn’t considered yet.
I appreciate your perspective. Thanks for sharing.
i agree 100% I think that it is a greater testament to our american values to kneel in protest of the flag rather than stand in silence. Part of what america is all about is being able to speak your mind or stand up (or in this case kneel) for what you believe in.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
Considering the fact that the majority only look at this situation from their own perspective, this blog post is very informative due to it looking from both sides. As someone who was for the protests,this solidifies where I stand(or kneel).
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I agree, this has really changed the way how i had seen this situation. The points you had brought up were interesting
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I am surprised that he hasn’t gotten more backlash from the NFL. I often attend Redskins games and not standing for the national anthem will always get you into a fight with some drunk “patriot”. but i am glad that someone who can get national attention is challenging the sacredness of the flag and the national anthem by using a peaceful protest and their right to freedom of expression.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
Right.. Critics love talking about some, “you’re disrespecting what the flag honors,” while being ignorant to the fact that the flag is not meeting the same standards of freedom for all types of people in America. If the flag is not truly representing freedom, what exactly is Kaepernick disrespecting? He’s disrespectful for drawing attention to flaws that need to be fixed in order to make this society truly equal and free? They keep drawing references to veterans, like if those black veterans aren’t facing inequality too.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I agree. The flag means something different to everybody and nobody should feel neglected for taking a knee to help make a difference in the race issue.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I agree with this blog and how Americans haven’t come to an agreement about definition of freedom and that is the problem. Protesting is our right. Also, perspective is so essential. People have to take the time to view the issue from the others person POV and try to understand what they are claiming.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I feel as though, when you made a point about perspective that is my main issue with this. When looking at the flag , it means different to everyone. To most its supposed to mean freedom, and if someone hense
” Colin Kaepernick ” feels as though the words being said he can not relate to , he has the right to peacefully protest such. Its a matter of deep value his critics feel disrespected by him and he feels disrespected by his country.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I completely agree with your points. I tried myself to figure out what makes it so called “disrespectful”. He obviously did it because our country is not as patriotic as it is suppose to be. So how can you stand there and listen to an anthem that doesn’t mean what it really says.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
I think the backlash coming from many white people in America is because criticism is hard to take. It doesn’t really matter if the protest is violent or not, but if it criticizes the current America, a lot of white people see it as an attack on themselves. This is a hard thing to get past, and one of the biggest reasons societal change is so hard to come by. The vast majority of white people in America know that we have a problem. We see the abuse and injustices on the news. We’re aware of what’s happening. We just need to accept that we need to do something to change it, and that takes criticism, both giving and taking. We need to not only take this type of criticism, we need to welcome it.
Your perspective is valuable. Thanks for sharing.
This was very interesting and thoughtful post. I really like how you touched on whether Kaepernick is disrespecting the flag or not. I thought it was important to mention how people may find Kaepernick’s protest disrespectful because of their different perspective. I like the post.
Your perspective is valued. Thanks for sharing.
I definitely agree with the beginning of the second paragraph because it is starting to break down the basics that it seems everyone should know, it is all perspective. Kaepernick from HIS background feels the need to not pledge to the flag, for it does not respect his people; if these white American’s are so patriotic and believe “The land of the free” then why are they so against other citizens free right to protest for respect?..
Your perspective is valued. Thanks for sharing.
When you said, “If one’s feelings are hurt by this nonviolent gesture, they should explore why”, I agree completely. People should and are able to protest and one protest may mean something on a different level than another person. The protesting is not harming anybody, therefore, it is okay.
Your perspective is valued. Thanks for sharing.
While I agree with what you’re saying 100%, but I’m not sure any amount of explaining will change the minds of some extremely “patriotic” Americans. I don’t think they’ll listen to us until someone on their side steps up and says something.
Your perspective is valued. Thanks for sharing.
To protest and speak freely is an inherent right in the United States, and one Kaepernick is expressing. Through condemnation of his actions, one would be going against the very freedoms they believe they’re defending through protest of Kaepernick’s actions. An initial reaction many people have to Kaepernick’s protest is that he is in a state of discontent with all aspects of the United States. But, if one can love America without loving the poverty and homelessness, one can also protest against the bad parts of America without attacking the good parts. Kaepernick is protesting against police brutality in the United States, but that does not mean he is condemning the military or the liberties in the United States. Kaepernick was fully within his rights to take these actions, and the attacking of these actions is an attack against an inherent American liberty.
Your perspective is valued. Thanks for sharing.