PErSpECTIves Campbell FLEMMING, 2021
Perspective 1: As the national anthem sounded throughout the stadium He took a simple knee A kneel that would later cost him his job A kneel that would inspire massive controversy I was inspired by his courage His courage to protest the brutality The brutality and oppression against African-Americans Broadcasted to the whole world, his red and gold jersey flapping in the air The look of solemnity entrenched on his face A move that went beyond sports A move that impacted the nation I supported the athlete that led his team to a Superbowl I supported that he stood for his ideals and beliefs I supported that he would rather kneel for what he believed than stand for what he didn’t I supported that his message would profoundly affect the NFL Perspective 2: Aggravated and insulted I was When I saw on television A football player kneeling during a song A song that means everything to me A song that reminds me of how great my country is A song that reminds me of my freedom The disrespect which this player displayed Not only to our nation but to our veterans Who everyday fight for our freedom This disrespect shouldn’t have been tolerated This football player did not deserve to kneel This football player made millions of dollars to play the game This football player needed to shut up and play There are other ways to protest But never, should anyone, kneel during the national anthem I am glad he lost his job in the league For his utter disregard of America
ECHOES • 82
