Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers Quarterback, recently refused to stand for the National Anthem.On camera, Kaepernick was noticed sitting down during the playing of the “Star Spangled Banner”in a preseason game. He stated that he was protesting against recent police brutality and racial injustice, and his protest has led to criticism and protests.

When asked about his recent protest, Kaepernick said in interview with the Alantic Post, “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.” The NFL does not require its athletes stand for the national anthem, the NFL actually said that it is Kaepernick’s right to not take part. However, reactions to Kaepernick’s protest was harsh that people started burning his jersey.

Buffalo Bills head coach, Rex Ryan, who addressed this issue in a recent news conference stated, “Anytime I talk to my team about that, if there’s personal beliefs or whatever that keep you from doing it, I understand. But at the same time, you know, you’ve got to look at the gifts that we have, the opportunity that we have to play a great game is through the men and women that serve our country.” Ryan’s statement shows the side of other people, and how they feel that it’s respectful to stand for the pledge, and Kaepernick’s actions are wrong.

However, Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers quarterback said, “I think some guys in the NFL are probably worried about repercussions on speaking their mind from the league … I think if more guys maybe did in our league, it would create a domino effect possibly.” Another athlete in the NFL that is following Kaepernick’s protest, Myke Tavarres, Philadelphia Eagles Rookie linebacker said he plans to sit during the national anthem in a preseason game later in the week. Tavarres explained how racial injustice is too important to ignore when interviewed by ESPN.

This protest has people very angry at Colin Kaepernick, Fans are disappointed. According to fox 40, Phillip Gallardo, who played pop warner football with Kaepernick, said, “I’m disappointed. He’s from our town, and supposed to do us proud,” Gallardo said. “His opinion is his opinion. But not on a big stage like that. He could have made it totally different.” Other athletes have agreed and supported Kaepernick’s protest.  Jeremey Lane, the Seatle Seahawks cornerback, sat down in protest during the preseason finale game, and plans to do so when they open against the Miami Dolphins. According to the Washington Post; Lane said that he was following Kaepernick’s protest because it was justice and thought Kaepernick’s protest reached him.  What will the protest lead to? Will more athletes and even fans start sitting for the National Anthem?