For years, the National Anthem has been seen as a sign of respect to those who have fought for our country's rights and safety. Standing and being quiet during the anthem has been a custom to the citizens of America at events like concerts and sporting events. Recently, many pro athletes have taken a stand against the racial problems in our country by kneeling during the National Anthem. Many see this as a peaceful form of protest, as opposed to not playing or beginning violence in games. But others have different opinions to the subject and have become enraged with the “lack of respect” that this displays. This debate has raised a number of questions. Is this a peaceful way to protest? Is it disrespectful? Should the players involved be penalized? This is seen to be an interesting and intriguing argument, and many people have taken sides and …show more content…
Not all countries are lucky enough to believe in the same values as ours, that being said, when it is clear that not all citizens are receiving equal freedoms, we must fight to bounce back and open the eyes of those who are in high command that something needs to be done. The country has a long history of sports being used as a way to raise awareness and a source to rally around. Barack Obama said, “Colin Kaepernick’s exercising his constitutional right to make a statement. I think there's a long history of sports figures doing so” Pro athletes choose to use their platform in a positive way and bring attention to issues that need to be addressed. In conclusion, there are many views on the National Anthem protests taking place in pro sports. In brief, the protests should be seen as a respectful and peaceful way to raise attention to the various social issues taking place in the country, and these athletes have displayed an immense amount of bravery by being able to stand, or “kneel”, for what they believe