... or Eric Reed, Kenny Britt, Robert Quinn, Antoine Bethea, Eli Harold, Brandon Marshall, Jelani Jenkins, Arian Foster, Michael Thomas, Kenny Stills, Jurrell Casey, Jason McCourty, Wesley Woodyard, Marellus Bennet, Devin McCourty, Marcus Peters, or Jeremy Lane.
Because first off, this was not a standalone act of rebellion (or even an act of rebellion at all). This was an organized and peaceful protest, and people are responding to it as if these brave men were committing some form of high treason. Luckily, we live in America, which, as the national anthem states, is the home of the brave.
Why It's Ridiculous to Boycott the NFL:
Because the NFL allows their players to practice freedom of speech and their first amendment rights, and there's nothing wrong with that.
Because this was not the NFL's fight. There was not full participation across all players, teams, coaches, etc., nor did the NFL organize this protest.
Because the NFL is one of the highest-watched events in this country, and these men are using their fame to fight for their freedom, for their rights, and for the lives of their brothers and sisters. The NFL was just one way to be sure their voices were heard.
Because this is not about the NFL. This is about justice. Justice for all.
Why I Don't Think You Should be Mad Either:
Because Americans are outraged by peace and desensitized to violence and oppression.
Because these players are not sitting or kneeling in defeat, but raising their fists in a united front and in solidarity with their fallen people.
Because these men are taking a knee for what they believe in, and nothing is more American than that.
Because you (and I) have no idea what it means to be black. You cannot speak a single word to what that means.
Because black lives fucking matter and symbols do not.
Why I Will Relentlessly Come to His Defense:
Because I will always come to the defense of the oppressed. As a Christian and as an American, I am called to the side of the underdog.
Because if I have the power to do something right, I will do it. Kaepernick and everyone else who participated have much more power than I do, and they are doing something right.
Because if I did nothing, I would be on the side of centuries of oppression, on the side of slaveholders, and on the side of white supremacy, and that is not me.
Because I do not hold the belief that I am any better or worthier of life, liberty, or the pursuit of happiness than any other human being.
Equality is part of being American. If you dream yourself to be any better than any other human being, you are sadly mistaken. These men are not treasonous. These men are not terrorists. These men want equality, and it is time to take a stand, or a knee, and join them.
