When the US National Anthem plays, the NFL shouldn’t kneel.

As ancient as the US constitution

Standing at attention during the national anthem is a virtue. (Scott 410). According to the US “Respect, the Flag” code, everyone present when the flag is raised should stand at attention with their right palm on their chest as a mark of respect. (Scott 410). The shocking disclosure came in 2016, though, when Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the National Anthem to protest the injustices done to Americans of color. A national discussion about whether they are justified to do so was sparked by a National Football League (NFL) player who established a standard that has already been followed by other players who share his viewpoint. Despite having a right to protest, this behavior of the NFL players must stop, they should find another way to communicate their grievances.

The first reason for opposing their kneeling for the flag

is that it’s a sign of disrespect to the nation and the armed forces (Sophie Tatum). The constitution is clear on this and categorically states that only the people in uniform may not stand for the national anthem. Standing is to show honor to our country, not anyone in particular and therefore all should do it as stipulated in the law.

Secondly, kneeling for the national anthem

is an infective way of protesting since it is against the law. Moreover, it portrays the whole team negatively, and this may interfere with the unity and morale of other players. According to Clemson University football coach, this action distracts the team (Sophie Tatum).

Finally, failure to stand for the national flag

only work to create divisions in the country’s population (Sophie Tatum). America must remain united, and therefore any action that may lead to polarization should be shunned by all. This move has elicited anger among many fans, NFL players, and other factions and this can only lead to disagreements among our citizens.

However, the proponents of this behavior

argue that it is the unique way of sending the message against racial discrimination (Sophie Tatum). It is true that racial prejudice is an issue in the US and needs attention as soon as possible. Nevertheless, the protest against it should occur consciously and respectfully.

In concluding, it is imperative for all citizens to love, cherish and respect our great nation

and all her service people who put their lives on the line every day to protect us. This honor can only prevail by observing simple things like standing for the national anthem, and everyone in the country should do this.

Works cited

Scott, James Brown. “Respect for the American Flag.” The American Journal of International Law 11.2 (1917): 410. Web.

Sophie Tatum, CNN. “Athletes, Activists Spar On Kneeling National Anthem Protests.” CNN. N.p., 2017. Web. 20 Oct. 2017.