Colin Kaepernick took a knee during the national anthem before Thursday’s preseason NFL game and pledged to continue his protest over police brutality and racism in the US.
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Kaepernick’s latest protest came just hours after photos from early in training camp surfaced of him wearing socks with police officers portrayed as cartoon pigs.
Nate Boyer, a former Army Green Beret and onetime National Football League player, met with Kaepernick for about 90 minutes Friday, and stood next to him during the anthem.
Colin Kaepernick’s choice to sit during the national anthem prior to a preseason game last weekend against the Green Bay Packers sparked a passionate national discussion.
Boyer stood for the anthem, but seemingly stood close to Kaepernick in support.
“People of color have been targeted by police”, Kaepernick told reporters while explaining why he didn’t stand for the national anthem.
The game also coincided with “Salute the Military night”, which saw 240 sailors, Marines and soldiers present a U.S. flag and a pre-game parachute jump by retired Navy SEALS. “I have family, I have friends that have gone and fought for this country. So before those socks, which were worn before I took my public stance, are used to distract from the real issues, I wanted to address this immediately”.
Fans in attendance will enjoy pregame entertainment provided by the Marine Band San Diego along with the Frog X parachute team, featuring retired navy seals who will be leaping into Qualcomm Stadium.
“As far as how long this goes, I’m not sure”, he said in a post-game news conference.
Kaepernick took to Instagram after the story broke on Thursday, pointing out that he has relatives who are police.
As Kaepernick knelt near the 49ers bench, a navy officer sang the anthem while 240 sailors, Marines and soldiers presented a USA flag and emblems from branches of service.
Kaepernick said he will continue to sit until he feels like feels like there is progress.
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Say what you want about Kaepernick’s patriotism – or lack thereof, depending on who you ask – but remember this: He has every right to protest.
