Numerous remarks accused San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick of disrespecting the country’s returned servicemen and women, but now veterans themselves are speaking out in support of Kaepernick’s protest.
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The Justice 4 Mario Woods Coalition organized the “Stand With Kaepernick” rally at 11 a.m.in front of the police union at 800 Bryant Street.
If Kaepernick, who plans to sit down for the National Anthem again Thursday prior to the 49ers’ preseason finale against the Chargers in heavily military populated San Diego, was hoping to foster positive dialogue with the police community, his socks likely will not be a step in the right direction.
Following his public protest of the anthem, Kaepernick disparaged law enforcement, and said that, “people [police officers] are on paid leave while people of color are killed”.
Kaepernick made clear that his protest did not apply to members of the military, many of whom offered support when #VeteransforKaepernick trended on social media Wednesday. What you are doing takes a lot of courage, and I’d be lying if I said I knew what it was like to walk around in your shoes. “That flag obviously gives [Kaepernick] the right to do whatever he wants”.
“I didn’t serve this country for my son to be afraid to walk down the street at night”, one army officer wrote.
“You don’t attack the very symbol of our unity by refusing to stand and showing disrespect”, O’Day said.
“I have great respect for the men and women that have fought for this country”, Kaepernick told the press.
“If I became rich and famous today, and chose to speak out about the on going systematic oppression of black people and constant police brutality in this country, which … uniform would you burn?” wrote one Instagram user and USA military veteran.
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“I encourage all veterans to make similar post to mine and show support for our brother Kaepernick”, the user added. Another says protesting is every American’s right.
