NFL Anthem Protests Won't End Until the NFL Does this One Simple Thing...

The key to ending the NFL anthem controversy is separating the players’ cause (ending racially motivated police brutality) from their protest method (disrespecting the anthem/flag/America by kneeling or remaining in the locker room).  It won't end until the NFL and its players realize this.

Instead of trying to prevent players from kneeling, the NFL should teach them that the anthem honors ALL who sacrificed for American values of freedom and equality--military veterans AND civil rights pioneers. 

Therefore, if the players genuinely want to advance their cause, they should encourage patriotism because, in a nation born with the words, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal," it is impossible to be a patriot AND a bigot.

This approach would have a double benefit for the players. It would win fan support for their cause while alienating bad cops as anti-American (instead of the players).

Is the NFL smart enough to make this case with its players?  Are the players smart enough to choose their cause over their flawed protest method?  Only time--and NFL attendance and TV ratings--will tell.  GS

 



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