Whether you approve of Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling or not, it’s important to note that his protests against social injustice are not new to sports. The 1996 Olympics, Muhammad Ali, and Lebron James are a few more examples. And each one experienced backlash for their actions. This short video puts activism among athletes into perspective.
I don’t get it. Why are people upset at athletes (and now others) kneeling on one knee during the National Anthem? No, this isn’t me taking sides politically. I just happen to know the historical significance of that act.
Look at the times when, traditionally, a person kneels on one knee: when a man proposes marriage, when a person is being knighted, and, for Catholics, when entering a pew at church.
In each case, the one-knee kneeling–whether briefly or for a longer time–is done to show respect and a willingness to submit. The man shows he’s willing to merge his life with his future spouse. The person being knighted shows his dedication to the Queen. And the church-goer shows his acceptance of the power and majesty of God.
I see those athletes as respectful–people showing their respect for and devotion to their country, and their promise to America a better place for everyone.