San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been the subject of intense scrutiny after he refused to stand for the national anthem at a preseason game against Bay Packers citing the “oppression” of black people in America.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. 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," said the 28-year-old who has an NFL record for most rushing yards (181) by a quarterback in a game.
He added, “If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right.”
The backlash has been swift and severe with San Francisco’s police union condemning Kaepernick’s actions and even the rival fans going to the extent of burning Kaepernick’s jersey.
NFL world has been divided over it
Amidst all these, Donald Trump has out-trumped himself yet again. Though this is not at all a surprise since time and time again, at each public appearance, he has preached more outrageous statements than the last.
Trump recently commented that the NFL player should find another country that suits his personal beliefs. "I have followed it and I think it's personally not a good thing. I think it's a terrible thing, and you know, maybe he should find a country that works better for him, let him try, it's not gonna happen," said the Republican Presidential candidate.
Earlier, Kaepernick was critical of Hillary Clinton when he met with the media. Meanwhile, Trump, whose campaign slogan is 'Make America Great Again', was called 'openly racist' by the Milwaukee-born football star.
He said, "I think the two presidential candidates that we currently have also represent the issues that we have in this country right now. You have Hillary who's called black teens or black kids super predators. You have Donald Trump who is openly racist."
However, two iconic former Olympians, John Carlos and Tommie Smith, who raised a black-gloved fist in the air in a “black power” salute during the 1968 Olympics medal ceremony have appreciated his courage. "He’s pushing for the same thing we pushed for 48 years ago, which is more dialogue and discussion,” said 71-year-old Carlos.
“Let’s talk about the issues rather than talk around the issues. Colin has a tremendous amount of courage. He now belongs in the same conversation as other civil rights icons"
Kaepernick said he will continue to sit during the playing of the anthem before games until “there’s significant change in the country”. Colin’s teammates are respectful of his stance but his actions have ignited a debate about respect, patriotism and the right of free speech.
