Mike Miller San Francisco 49ers starting quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been in the spotlight since his rookie year in 2011, mostly for his erratic play on the field. What he just did — then said — off the field is making headlines.
Prior to a pre-season game with the Green Bay Packers on Friday night, Kaepernick refused to stand for the playing of the National Anthem.
Following the game, the 49ers issued an obligatory statement:
“The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens.
In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.”
Kaepernick retweeted this message on Thursday, which he later deleted:
“The fact that you really believe that there is difference in these flags means that your [sic] ignoring history.”
But it’s his explanation on Saturday morning that’s making waves:
.@Kaepernick7: I won't "show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color" pic.twitter.com/gCHXeDUTS1
— IJR (@TheIJR) August 27, 2016
Twitter was quick to respond:
https://twitter.com/aubrey_huff/status/769550699604561922
https://twitter.com/Koppers2550/status/769549301244502017
UPDATE: Kaepernick responded, is still an idiot https://t.co/YqohJXncCN
— Busted Coverage (@bustedcoverage) August 27, 2016
This country allows Colin Kaepernick to be a millionaire for being mediocre at his job.
— Blockboy JR (@Jim_Racalto) August 27, 2016
#ColinKaepernick shows both a lack of respect and ignorance of the issues. Sad he can't see what #USA has given him https://t.co/zifI9gCEEP
— Phil Larsen (@PhilALarsen) August 27, 2016
Then there was this…
https://twitter.com/TheRightWingM/status/769557342857863168
While social media’s response was predictable, the San Francisco 49ers and the NFL’s are not. It will be interesting to watch this play out. Off the field, of course — which seems to be where Kaepernick likes to make news.