Kneeling during the national anthem has become a hot-button issue that exposes a terrific divide. There are some who believe kneeling during the anthem disrespects the flag, God, country and all the brave men and women who have made sacrifices to ensure our rights.
I disagree. Kneeling is an expression of freedom of speech. I feel that this particular freedom is one of, if not the most, important freedom Americans possess.
Equating kneeling during the national anthem with disrespect shown toward our country is not what was intended by the Founding Fathers. In fact, it was quite the opposite. The First Amendment offers professional athletes, Donald Trump, you and me the right to exercise freedom of speech and expression without fear of repression from the government.
One thing for us to think about in the Concord community is the possible trickle-down effect among our local athletes. This kneeling gesture was introduced by Colin Kaepernick to bring attention to uneven treatment of blacks and other minorities by law enforcement personnel around the country. President Trump fanned the flame of discord by calling protesting athletes “S.O.B.’s,” among other things.
We should not be surprised to see Granite State students kneeling during the anthem. We should be ready and prepared with measured and thoughtful responses.
This is a huge teaching moment. We are blessed and fortunate to live in a country that protects free speech. Your opinion is no more or less protected than is the opinion of all of our citizenry.
TOM WALTON
Contoocook