NFL Players Protest During National Anthem Following President Trump’s Remarks
NFL players from several teams, including the Steelers, Ravens, Jaguars, Broncos, Seahawks and Titans protested the national anthem during Week 3. Many
NFL players from several teams, including the Steelers, Ravens, Jaguars, Broncos, Seahawks and Titans protested the national anthem during Week 3.
Many NFL players opted to use Sunday’s games as a way of protesting racial inequality following President Trump’s call to “fire or suspend” anyone who refuses to stand for the national anthem.
If a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL,or other leagues, he or she should not be allowed to disrespect….
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
…our Great American Flag (or Country) and should stand for the National Anthem. If not, YOU'RE FIRED. Find something else to do!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 23, 2017
The protests started early on Sunday, as many players from the Baltimore Ravens and Jacksonville Jaguars opted to kneel at their game in London. Jaguars owner Shad Khan, who was previously a Trump supporter, linked arms with his players in a show of solidarity.
Jaguars owner Shad Khan speaks about having supported Trump during the election and now supporting his players as they protest. pic.twitter.com/LySQW87Trh
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) September 24, 2017
Another team who opted to protest during the National Anthem was the Pittsburgh Steelers, who remained in the locker room prior to their game against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field.
Statement from #Steelers President Art Rooney II: pic.twitter.com/V6rCVvmofD
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) September 24, 2017
Steelers left tackle Alejandro Villanueva, an Army Ranger who served in Afghanistan, was present for the anthem prior to the game.
Great solidarity for our National Anthem and for our Country. Standing with locked arms is good, kneeling is not acceptable. Bad ratings!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 24, 2017
The Seahawks and Titans also chose to protest the national anthem.
“As a team, we have decided we will not participate in the national anthem,” the Seahawks said in a statement. “We will not stand for the injustice that has plagued people of color in this country. Out of love for our country and in honor of the sacrifices made on our behalf, we unite to oppose those that would deny our most basic freedoms. We remain committed in continuing to work towards equality and justice for all.”
The Titans’ statement had the same message.
“As a team, we wanted to be unified in our actions today,” the Titans’ statement said. “The players jointly decided this was the best course of action. Our commitment to the military and our community is resolute and the absence of our team for the national anthem shouldn’t be misconstrued as unpatriotic.”
The NFL has said that no fines are being considered for players who partake in any form of protest.
