I think there is irony in the idea that Kaepernick is refusing to salute the flag of a country that allows him the right to not salute the flag. But the fact that this nation allows certain rights that aren't allowed in other countries, while excellent, does not mean our culture is immune to criticism. He has the right, and maybe even the responsibility, to stand up (or sit down) for what he believes is correct.
I like the distinction that Adelson makes between what Kaepernick did and what the NBA stars did by speaking at the ESPYs. He caused discomfort. What they did was great, but it didn't really cause any discomfort. That's a really important point and highlights why what Kaepernick did was so important.
I also agree with this statement, "Kaepernick didn’t interrupt the anthem. He didn’t take away from anyone else’s moment to salute and revere the flag. He didn’t even break a league rule. He simply sat down one night and explained himself the next morning. That allowed for maximum effect with minimum invasiveness." He's not trying to ruin anyone's life. He's just making his point.
"Instead of asking him to shut up, we should question him more." I think this is right on point. He should be given the chance to back up what he believes. And if he does that well and shows that this isn't just grandstanding, this is something he deeply feels, then he'll be able to show that. And the world needs to respect it if that's the case. Not use it as an opportunity to tear him to pieces.
Finally, the author highlights what's really at stake right now. "It’s a conversation that forces us to think. What do we want our elected officials to do about police brutality, poverty, gun violence and crime?" With an election of particular historical importance approaching, we need to be thinking and talking about these issues before it's too late, not after. And for that wake-up call we can thank, in part, Colin Kaepernick.
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