Colin Kaepernick Refused to Stand Up During the National Anthem
Last night, Colin Kaepernick refused to stand for the playing of the national anthem before a game against Green Bay at Levi's Stadium. Instead, he remained in his seat in protest of racism and brutality in the United States.
"I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color," the San Francisco 49ers quarterback told NFL Media after the game. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."
Kaepernick added that he didn't discuss his plans with anyone affiliated with the team, saying that it's "not something that I am going to run by anybody."
"I am not looking for approval," he continued. "I have to stand up for people that are oppressed...if they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right."
In response, the 49ers issued the following statement:
"The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose and participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem."
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