In recent weeks, the nation has been stirred by a powerful act of dissent initiated by NFL player Colin Kaepernick, who chose not to stand during the National Anthem. Kaepernick, committed to his cause, explained, “I cannot stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and communities of color… This is about more than just football; it would be selfish for me to ignore this issue.”
Responses to Kaepernick’s protest have been polarized. While some view his actions as disrespectful to the sacrifices made for freedom, others recognize it as a valid exercise of free speech. This discourse has now permeated high schools across the country, where students—some athletes and others not—have begun to emulate Kaepernick’s stance. In some instances, faculty members have even joined their students in protest. For instance, at Lincoln High School in New Jersey, coaches knelt alongside their players during the anthem. Coach Tom Reynolds stated, “Our actions indicate that change is necessary. There is oppression and social injustices that these students experience firsthand.”
However, not every student has received such backing. At one institution, a teacher faced disciplinary action for attempting to physically compel a student to stand for the anthem. Meanwhile, at Franklin High School in Massachusetts, a football player was initially suspended for kneeling during the anthem at a game. Fortunately, the school administration later reversed this decision, asserting, “The student’s peaceful and silent protest did not violate any school policy. He exercised his constitutional rights without disrupting the assembly, and he will not face any penalties.”
This moment highlights the pressing issues of racism and police brutality faced by marginalized communities, which deserve urgent attention. The students’ silent protest is a call to acknowledge the often-ignored struggles that people of color encounter from those sworn to protect them.
Detractors of these protests argue for the need to respect America and its symbols. Yet, the essence of what makes America exceptional lies in our freedom to express our beliefs, challenge governmental actions, and protest injustices. The actions of these students embody the very spirit of American values, as do the counterarguments that exist. If we were to force these students to conform by standing with their hands over their hearts, what kind of society would we inhabit? Would we not mirror the very nations that suppress individual freedoms?
It is entirely valid to have strong feelings about these protests, whether positive or negative. However, we must recognize that peaceful protest is among our most cherished rights, and the bravery it takes to engage in such acts should be nurtured, not stifled. If we aspire to cultivate independent thinkers who will contribute positively to society, we must extend our support to these students rather than impose censorship.
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Summary:
Students protesting during the National Anthem deserve support for their courageous act of free speech, rather than punishment. This movement, inspired by Colin Kaepernick, highlights the importance of addressing racial injustice and the need for open dialogue on these issues. Schools should encourage independent thought and peaceful protest as part of nurturing responsible citizens.