Conveying a message

Disrespect? Or exercising their constitutional right to protest? Kneeling during the national anthem has sprouted many arguments toward the NFL. People say it is a needed message toward America, while some think it shows disrespect to the national flag and people. President Trump’s tweet has also sparked confusion toward the reason of protest. Although it increased America’s temper, I stand with the NFL.

Although the protest displayed disrespect, the NFL players were only conveying a powerful message relating to racism and police brutality. Showing disrespect wasn’t their intention, but minorities need America to wake up to and address racial and unfair treatment toward minorities in America. Kneeling is a way of grabbing attention and exercising their constitutional right to protest.

Reading CNN news about President Trump’s tweet about the kneeling issue not being about race confused me. First of all, this whole act of protest started with Colin Kaepernick, due to police brutality and racism. As a concerned minority, I clearly see President Trump does not understand the message these athletes are conveying, resulting in nothing being fixed, and the ongoing protest.

It’s understandable to think it’s disrespectful, but we need to tackle both sides of the issue safely and fairly. If President Trump wants this fixed, understanding and addressing their reason of protest is a step further to solving this issue.

JEREMIAH JARED LUBATON

Jacksonville