Writers have recently reminded us of the debt of gratitude we owe those who, over the course of our nation’s history, have made the “ultimate sacrifice” to secure our freedom. They are presently in somewhat of a tizzy, however, because NFL player Colin Kaepernick and others have been exercising their freedom of expression in a manner which they deem inappropriate; protesting racial discrimination by sitting, kneeling or linking arms while the national anthem is being played.
Fortunately, attempting to focus added attention on critical issues such as disproportionately higher arrest rates for minorities, and longer prison sentences for same offenses etc, is of greater importance to these players than the delicate sensitivities of those who are ever eager to be offended.
Thankfully, the First Amendment protects them from those who are unable (or unwilling) to understand and tolerate differing perspectives. But consider the following. Mr. Trump’s campaign slogan “Make America Great Again” clearly conveys the belief that our country isn’t currently “great.” He points to countless issues, (real or imagined) that he considers horribly wrong and his supporters squeal in delightful agreement. The message they are essentially sending the world is that America stinks. Yet, despite the show of disrespect, their patriotism isn’t challenged nor should it be; we should be able to criticize our country’s imperfections without being subjected to scorn and derision. Unless, I guess, we refuse to blindly observe our “sacred” rites and traditions “appropriately” while doing so.
Dan Postema
Everett
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