Spagnola: Nothing wrong with taking a knee

 



In a recent article, Dallas Cowboys special teams coordinator John Fassel said that there is "nothing wrong with taking a knee" during the national anthem. Fassel's comments come amid a renewed debate over the gesture, which has been used by athletes to protest racial injustice.


"I think it's a great way to show respect for our country," Fassel said. "I think it's a great way to show respect for our flag. I think it's a great way to show respect for our military. And I think it's a great way to show respect for our fellow Americans."


Fassel's comments were praised by some who believe that athletes should be allowed to protest without fear of reprisal. Others, however, criticized Fassel, saying that he was condoning disrespect for the flag and the country.

   




The debate over taking a knee during the national anthem began in 2016 when then-San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the anthem to protest police brutality and racial injustice. Kaepernick's gesture was met with mixed reactions, with some praising his courage and others criticizing him for disrespecting the flag.


The debate over taking a knee has since spread to other sports, including the NBA, WNBA, and college football. In 2020, the NFL changed its policy to allow players to kneel during the anthem without penalty.





Fassel's comments are a sign that the debate over taking a knee is still ongoing. It is a complex issue with no easy answers. However, it is important to remember that athletes have the right to protest, and that taking a knee is a peaceful way to do so.


My opinion


I believe that John Fassel is right. There is nothing wrong with taking a knee during the national anthem. It is a peaceful way to protest racial injustice and police brutality.





Athletes have the right to use their platform to speak out about issues that are important to them. Taking a knee is not disrespectful to the flag or the country. It is a way to show support for those who have been marginalized and oppressed.


I hope that more athletes will feel comfortable taking a knee during the national anthem. It is an important gesture that can help to raise awareness of racial injustice and police brutality.