It looks like a lot of people are talking about NFL players and how many of them are still taking a knee during the national anthem.From what I understand, some feel like it’s a show of disrespect while others see it as a way to peacefully protest injustices in this country.It’s an extremely complex and emotional issue. And there are still a few players who are kneeling today.
I can’t help but question how some people feel that taking a knee somehow dishonors the flag and our country. To me, these players are standing for something much bigger than that. They’re taking a powerful stance—one that goes beyond any single individual—to show that, in this country, our voices can be heard. No matter how hard the opposition tries to silence us, we still have the right to speak up.
I can’t imagine what it must feel like to still protest on the field in this era. It’s an incredibly brave thing to do. Every time I think about a player taking a knee, I feel a mix of admiration and sadness. Admiring the strength it takes to make this kind of statement. And sadness, knowing that in this day and age, people are still struggling to get recognition for the very basic rights we should all have.
I’ll admit, the way some comment on the issue is disrespectful. And these people often don’t even consider the bigger picture. All they seem to care about is the physical action of taking a knee. But, for many, this is hardly the point. It’s not about the anthem or the flag or patriotism.Kneeling—and whatever other forms of protest people choose —are about defending those who are otherwise unable to do so. It’s about making sure everyone is treated fairly and given the respect they deserve.
I think a lot of people miss the real meaning behind the protests. Instead of getting riled up over the kneeling, maybe it’s time for us to put our energy into actually creating change. That way, we can start to truly honor the true spirit of America; one in which everyone is respected, and everyone has a voice that can be heard.
Part 2:
I hope that we can learn from past mistakes. The idea of taking a knee is not a new action. Throughout history, there have been countless examples of unarmed individuals using absolute courage to highlight inequality and injustice. One example is that of the civil rights activists of the 1960s, who used powerful symbolic acts like the Freedom Rides to demonstrate their discontent and ultimately make their voices heard.
We still face social injustices today, and the act of taking a knee is still being used to raise awareness, just like it was in the past. It’s easy to stand idly by and accept things as they are. But it’s harder to stand up and challenge the status quo.
I’m glad that some NFL players are kneeling, however, it’s discouraging to know that there are still some teams where this is not allowed. Even if there is an unspoken authoritarian rule around taking a knee, that doesn’t mean it won’t be recognized or noticed.
The idea of protesting is to put yourself in an uncomfortable position and invite public scrutiny. The thought here is to be demanding and honest—to shed light on injustices and confront the difficult conversations we should be having as a society.
I think that’s ultimately the best way to effect positive change. The concept of taking a knee allows for just that. It’s a form of peaceful protest, and a call for progress. And while it’s unfortunate that it’s still necessary in our society, I’m glad those who are speaking out still find the strength to do it.
Part 3:
Kneeling before a game has become quite controversial, and it’s led to a lot of tension between football players and fans. People might argue that allegiance to one’s country should be displayed proudly—through standing with hand on heart. But, as an American, it’s possible to stand up for the flag while still challenging wrongdoing.
People have wrongly assumed that the kneeling is a sign of disrespect to our troops. But the truth is, it’s intended to be the opposite. The players kneel in order to demonstrate their profound gratitude to America’s servicemen and women for protecting their freedom to protest.
I think it’s easy to react to an action before fully understanding what’s behind it. Kneeling is about creating an occasion for polite conversation. To a certain degree, it’s an attempt to bridge the gap between those who support it and those who disapprove of it.
It’s about showing that—when we’re willing to open up dialogue—we can start to make real changes. It encourages us to have tough conversations with each other about the issues facing America today.
I’m sure it’s not easy to kneel. I mean, you’re putting your career on the line. You’re daring to go against the grain and say, “I’m not okay with what’s happening.” That takes real courage.
Part 4:
I believe that taking a knee is a powerful symbol that is too easily misinterpreted by some. To me, taking a knee isn’t a sign of disrespect. It’s actually a sign of respect—not only for the country we live in, but also for the people who don’t have a voice. It’s about acknowledging that there’s still a lot of work to be done in order to fully uphold American values.
I think we should listen to those who find taking a knee uncomfortable—like our veterans and service members. We could invite them to voice their opinion and perhaps even join in the conversation. If we’re open to talking about what taking a knee stands for, we might even be able to find some common ground.
I understand why some people find taking a knee troublesome; it’s a reminder that there are still issues in our country that need to be addressed. The idea of protest is to think profoundly about the injustices in our society, and command change starting from the heart.
In the end, the mere act of taking a knee is not enough. We have to use our voices and our resources to see real progress. We need to act beyond the pregame show—to truly listen to each other, and take real steps to make our society a better place for everyone.