A Rose By Any Other Name

[dannyj]

Mickey,
I am almost there too. My wife, starting today, isn't watching anymore. Selfishly, (I love football) I'm still watching, but definitely getting closer to saying the hell with it. My father in-law is a veteran and my dad was a veteran. I know what they'd say.

Maybe it me, but I am not viewing these protest the same as you and mickey are. I haven't seen any indication of anyone's protesting being directed at the current military or veterans. I was under the impression these protests were about calling attention to perceived unjust domestic actions and policies in the hopes of change.

And because protests are one of our fundamental rights as Americans, I view these protesters as in a way "honoring" our military and veterans, for us all having that right to protest. Agree or disagree with what is being protested, military and veterans should take pride in that they protected our way of life and the freedom that we all enjoy, including the right to protest, even protest dumb things.

KJ,

Points taken. My perspective is, I don't watch sports (IMO neither does the vast majority) to see this endless activism. Professional players have very large audiences. Again IMO, players should say and do all they want on their own time. I fail to see what the point is to take a knee during the national anthem with the giant field covering flag waving. Seriously what is the point of this silent protest? Wouldn't they be better served holding weekly press conferences where they can speak the issues and be heard?

No, I don't believe their intentions are to disrespect the military or the flag, but to a lot of people that is what they are doing. That is why I believe talking about issues is better than silent protestations.

If the NFL starts seeing less profits for too long (I hear attendances are down) this will end. Time will tell.

Edited to add:
Did you see where Pittsburgh player Alejandro Villanueva defied the steelers' Anthem protest? He's the only Vet on the team and only player to come out for anthem.