America has recently become outraged over San Fransisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who refused to stand during the National Anthem in "protest." For as long as I can remember, I have always stood with honor and respect for those who fought for our freedom. The National Anthem has always reminded me of what I have and the things for which my ancestors fought.
Recently Kaepernick "immersed himself into a controversy" by exclaiming that his behavior during the National Anthem was a sign of protest of what he believes are wrongdoings against African Americans and minorities in the United States. Kaepernick claimed that "[He is] not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color."
Although Kaepernick does indeed have the right to stay seated, he does not have the right to use the National Anthem as his symbol of protest. Kaepernick is against oppression, but what has he done to fix the problem (aside from use the National Anthem as a tool for publicity)? Oppression is often defined as the mistreatment and exploitation of a group of individuals (Kaepernick refers to this group as colored people - himself included). The way I see it, for an "oppressed" individual, he has been granted quite a few gifts and privileges.
"The feeling of being heavily burdened, mentally or physically, by troubles, adverse conditions, anxiety, etc." does not seem toapply to Kaepernick. If he remained seated during the National Anthem in order to take a stand for the oppressed, then why has he not worked to get those individuals justice? Oppression is real, but Kaepernick should not be its mascot. When I look at Colin Kaepernick, I do not see an oppressed person. Instead, I see someone who is spoiled. I see someone who might have good intentions for a cause but who does not know the right way to express them.
