This is the First Amendment:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
Freedom of speech, religion, the press, the right to assemble, and the right to petition—these fundamental rights are the essence of America.
Who would be so unpatriotic as to criticize Mr. Kaepenick for exercising a fundamental right in a public forum in which Black American football players should have a podium?
Carry your flag proudly, say your pledge proudly, proudly stand for the Star Spangled Banner, but tolerate those who do not, or you are disrespecting the very ideals and symbols you think you are protecting. In Countries less great that ours, such speech could bring imprisonment or death. Applaud this young man for having the courage to exercise his free speech rights knowing that to do so would bring criticism, but also knowing that in America it is his right, and he may feel it’s also his moral duty.
Mr. Kaepernick does not offer a solution to police shootings of unarmed black men and children. But he does offer his opinion. And he does help promote the dialog that will offer solutions, because he states his opinion by sitting down with millions watching. America is great because of these fundamental rights, and because the People feel free to exercise these rights, which promotes the dialog that keeps us strong and free. The day we cannot do so is the day America loses its greatness.
Stand up against those who would diminish our rights, and support Mr. Kaepenick’s right to speak his mind through action, even if you disagree with the message and the means.
Good for you Mr. Kaepernick!
September 2016