“The way we operate for the national anthem, we consider it a small gesture to those who served and sacrificed their lives for our country and for us to play and coach in this great game”.
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It took almost two weeks to respond to the national firestorm that erupted after the $126 million back-up quarterback refused to stand during the playing of the national anthem before an August 26 preseason game.
As a black man in today’s society, I believe that Kaepernick is very fearless and I support the movement he is representing.
In preseason, Kaepernick sat and later knelt down during the anthem in protest of “a country that oppresses black people and people of color”, he told NFL Media. He said he’s pleased his 49ers jersey has become the top seller in the National Football League since his protest became public.
Many Americans saw Kaepernick’s gesture as a sign of disrespect to the flag and criticism was widespread, but he has also been supported by several fellow athletes, including Megan Rapinoe, a white soccer player who knelt before her game on Sunday. “There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder”.
The announcement comes days after 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick announced his commitment to donate the first $1 million of his salary to charity.
“I think it’s something where there’s a lot of players that really feel the same way”, Kaepernick said. On the other hand, we believe very strongly in patriotism in the NFL.
“Well, based upon my military background, as you would expect, I have very, very strong feelings about the national anthem”. On Wednesday, he was asked in an interview to comment on Kaepernick’s decision to protest standing for the national anthem.
“We understand this may be seen as an extraordinary step”, the Spirit said, “but believe it was the best option to avoid taking focus away from the game on such an important night for our franchise”. According to the New York Daily News’ Shaun King, the two were also fraternity brothers.
That lack of practice time contributed to Blaine Gabbert winning the starting quarterback job for the 49ers. He replaced the injured Alex Smith as starter later that season and led San Francisco to the Super Bowl.
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“I haven’t”, he said.
