Two high school football athletes found themselves off their team after they decided to kneel during the national anthem prior to their Friday night game. This incident highlights a growing trend that extends beyond professional sports.
In the wake of NFL players showcasing solidarity following President Trump’s controversial remarks about protests initiated by former quarterback Colin Kaepernick, two students from Victory and Praise School in Crosby, Texas, took a similar stance. Cedric Johnson and Malik Turner informed their coach about their intention to protest before the game. However, after kneeling with a raised fist, they were instructed to return their uniforms and were removed from the team.
Coach Ronnie Ray Mitchem, a military veteran, expressed his belief that there is an appropriate time and manner for protests. He has a longstanding rule that players must stand during the anthem. This incident underscores the ongoing tension between athletes advocating for change and the traditional perspectives of authority figures in sports.
Despite feeling “humiliated” after being asked to remove their uniforms right after the anthem, Johnson and Turner expressed pride in drawing attention to their cause. Yet, Johnson’s mother, Patricia Green, criticized Coach Mitchem’s actions, stating, “I definitely need to discuss this further. I’m appalled by how this situation was managed.”
This marks the second weekend of games since Trump’s remarks ignited a national debate, and the protests are now resonating at the high school level. Coach Mitchem has the right to enforce team rules, but the narrative surrounding the protests is often mischaracterized. Kaepernick and those who followed suit are not protesting the anthem itself, but rather raising awareness about police violence and the systemic inequalities faced by black individuals in America.
Just over a week into this evolving story, it has been reframed by various media outlets and public figures into one of free speech and patriotism, further complicating the conversation. Coach Mitchem’s actions inadvertently contribute to the confusion over when and how athletes can express their dissent.
Nevertheless, the athletes are garnering support online, as many recognize the importance of their message.
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In summary, the recent dismissal of two high school players for kneeling during the national anthem has sparked significant discussion about the right to protest and the motivations behind such actions. As the narrative continues to evolve, it is essential to recognize the underlying issues these protests aim to address.