Police in Santa Clara, Calif., have threatened to stop securing Levi’s Stadium during games as long as quarterback Colin Kaepernick continues to protest during the national anthem, NBC Bay Area reports.
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Frank Saunders, president of the Santa Clara Police Officers Association, told NBC Bay Area that some – but not all – of the 70 officers, may not fulfill their duties of providing security at the game.
The Discussion over Colin Kaepernick’s decision to sit during the national anthem has become the latest topic to divide the public, adding to the already volatile debate over police brutality and race relations in the country.
It accused the 49ers of “permitting Kaepernick to wear exposed socks with the picture of a pig wearing a police hat”. Police officers are here to protect the rights of every person, even if we disagree with their position. People of color have been targeted by police.’ Mr. Kaepernick then made inaccurate and untrue statements about the level of training that is required to be a police officer. “Not only does he show an incredible lack of knowledge regarding our profession and ‘officer involved” shootings, but also shows a naivety and total lack of sensitivity toward police officers”.
The 49ers reiterated Friday night that they stand behind Kaepernick and respect his right not to participate in celebrating the national anthem. “Photos of Mr. Kaepernick wearing these socks with the derogatory image have been broadcast nationally”. “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color”, Kaepernick said in an interview with NFL Media after the August 26 game.
Outlining the plan further, the quarterback, who is reportedly set to earn $11.9 million in salary this year, said: “I’m now working with organizations to be involved, and making sure I’m actively in these communities, as well as donating the first million dollars I make this year to different organizations to help these communities and help these people”. “I think having these conversations helps everybody have a better understanding of where everybody is coming from”. “Let’s have them go deal with” Kaepernick, he said.
The Santa Clara Police Officers’ Association claimed Kaepernick’s actions “threatened our harmonious working relationship” with the National Football League franchise.
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The police hope this protest will convince the 49ers to punish Kaepernick (something that may not be necessary if he continues to play poorly).
