Freedom of speech is an important right in the United States of America, but Colin Kaepernick is taking it to a more serious level.
With all of the racial oppression in the United States, Kaepernick made the decision that he would not stand during the national anthem, and would sit on the bench instead. Ever since he began sitting during the anthem, he's been slurred at, called names, and shunned by teammates and coaches around the league. The major question surrounding the situation is this: is Kaepernick wrong in sitting down? Or is he right in trying to end racial oppression?
After a long discussion with Nate Boyer, the former Army Green Beret, and safety Eric Reid at the hotel on Thursday afternoon, Kaepernick changed his plan to sit on the bench, and instead he would sit on one knee so he wouldn't offend people as much and attempt to be more respectful.
"Once again, 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."
There have also been players around the league that have spoke to Kaepernick and agreed with his morals, they were just too afraid to speak what was on their mind. Seattle Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane also joined Kaepernick's protest in Oakland, taking a seat Thursday night during the anthem before a game against the Raiders.
Kaepernick is also following the old saying "actions speak louder than words". After speaking to the media, he stated that he plans to donate the first million dollars he makes this year to help communities in need for racial inequality. He went on to say..
"It was something I was thinking about to try to make sure that I'm not just talking about something but I'm actively being involved and actively trying to make a change in these communities and I've been very blessed to be in this position and be able to make the kind of money I do and I have to help these people," Kaepernick said. "I have to help these communities. It's not right that they're not put in the position to succeed or given those opportunities to succeed."
After hearing everything from the media, as well as players and coaches, what are your feelings toward Colin Kaepernick? Is he going about racial oppression in an appropriate matter? Or is it too disrespectful to our country to not stand during the national anthem?
