A lot of talk has gone on recently about the state of the U.S. and the demand for respect from its citizens. This directly correlates with the crimes that have been committed against citizens and the responses to said events from the surrounding communities. Recently, NFL Quarterback, Colin Kapernick, said "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color." I have observed many peoples' reactions from hearing the quote and I would like to look at it objectively.

In considering recent events, specifically police killing citizens, it's understandable to see some harsh reactions to authority. The rulings alone are cause for anger by all means. I believe that Kapernick truly didn't mean any disrespect to the country but rather towards how the government has been handling the police brutality epidemic. It's easy to get caught up in the politics which don't truly make any sense to the average citizen. There is without a doubt an epidemic that needs to be taken care of within the country. Does the oppression seem to be happening to the same minority group, yes. I agree with all of those factors and I do believe that the government needs to step in and make crucial decisions in order to sustain public peace.

Now that I have observed Kapernick from his assumed point of view, I personally find the comment to be inappropriate and the gesture appalling. What Kapernick failed to realize was that he was disrespecting millions of individuals that have risked their entire lives to defend and maintain its greatness. Our country is far from flawless. We've been involved in genocide, slavery, segregation, and a lot of discrimination, however, we have one unique quality that is the benchmark for true patriotism, freedom. The gift of freedom is one that is not easily upheld and bestowed. What Americans in general fail to remember is that we are extremely privileged to be able to speak freely about our distaste for the government and other aspects about the country. There are far too many nations who would never and will never have that ability. The national anthem itself is a memorial and in remembrance of those who lost their lives fighting to uphold the pillars that keep this country sturdy. It was selfish to not realize that the anthem itself is for the lost ones, not the ones who get to enjoy the freedom everyday of being an American.

I can understand how impatience and distaste for authority can occur because of what's been going on with police violence. Unfortunately, it doesn't justify disrespecting the flag and what those three colors represent. I believe that Kapernick should be ashamed for his comment but even more for the action of disrespecting the flag. He's lucky that this country has freedom of speech otherwise Kapernick wouldn't be able to even think of saying or doing something like that.