San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s protest is growing, and with it, his mission.
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49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneels during the US national anthem to protest American racial injustice and minority oppression before a pre-season game against the San Diego Chargers on Thursday night.
He said he wanted to show support for San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who has made similar gestures as a sign of protest through the preseason. “And I have to help these people”.
“Those conversations are important to have because the better we understand each other, the better we know each other, the better we can deal and communicate with each other which ultimately makes everyone, puts everybody in a better position”.
Kaepernick also said he spoke to a military veteran before the game about his cause.
Despite not standing for the anthem, Kaepernick openly applauded the military members in attendance, when the song “God Bless the USA” was played before the game. “I’m going to continue to stand with the people that are being oppressed”.
The refusals took place during Military Night at Qualcomm Stadium and just after jumpers parachuted into the middle of the field.
In response to Kaepernick sitting during the anthem last Friday, the NFL released a statement saying “players are encouraged but not required to stand during the playing of the national anthem”.
Reid told Kaepernick before the game of his intention to join him.
Kaepernick took time also during his post-game news conference to attempt to refocus the message he is trying to get across with his protest.
When asked if he will continue to kneel, Reid said, “I think I will”.
After a 31-21 win over the Chargers, Kaepernick spoke about the fact that Reid had joined him in the protest, as well as about donating the first $1 million he earns this year to various charities. “There are a lot of issues that need to be talked about”.
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Eventually, as Navy Petty Officer First Class Steven Powell sang the anthem, Kaepernick took a knee in front of the bench.
