September 11th, 2001 the American nation was shocked when two high-jacked planes flew into the twin towers. Not only were the twin towers broken but so were the hearts of the American people.
A lot has happened in last 15 years. The United States of America has rebuilt themselves from the destruction that happened on September 11th, 2001. We have become a stronger nation.
Unfortunately, there have been a few bumps along the way such as protests. The most recent protest is that of NFL players exercising their right of speech by not standing for our national anthem.
It all started with San Francisco 49ers quarterback, Colin Kaepernick. It's not his first time taking a stand or should I say seat, during the preseason. During the games on August 14th and 20th he did not stand. August 26th was yet another date that he chose not to stand for our great nation, this was the game that he got the most publicity.
After the game Kaepernick told NFL Media, "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," He continues, "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." Personally, I have not heard of anyone who is getting paid leave to get away with murder.
Something that just bothers me and possibly you as well is that Kaepernick says that this country 'oppresses black people and people of color'. I have some questions for Colin, how does a nation that is run by a black president oppress only blacks and people of color? If blacks are so badly oppressed then how is he a quarterback for an NFL team?
The sad thing part to all of this is that this past Sunday was a day of remembrance: September 11th. It was also NFL kickoff. Personally as a dedicated fan I was excited for the day. But unfortunately I was shocked when on such a day as this, NFL players like, Kenny Stills, Michael Thomas, Arian Foster and Jelani Jenkins chose not to stand for everything that our nation prides itself in.
Don't get me wrong I am not saying that you can't have your right to freedom of speech, you can. I am saying, that on September 11th the day that so many Americans lost their lives and those who fought back but did not make it and those who continue to fight for our freedom.
The least you can do is plant your two feet on the solid ground beneath you, take your right hand and place it over your heart and respect the great nation that allows you to play the greatest sport on earth.
So to the NFL players who don't stand up please think again. I love the NFL, I most likely love your team, I love this nation and all of the citizens within it. If you can't find a reason to stand I'll give you one; do it for those who fought and those who are fighting so hard for you so that you can play a game.
