National Anthem Protests Against Racism Timeline
The nation’s most detailed and current timeline of significant events regarding the national anthem protests against racism
*Complete lists of all reported national anthem protests against racism are at the “Protest Heroes” links on menu.
Carolina Panthers’ safety Eric Reid states that he will continue to kneel during the national anthem in protest of racism/white supremacy in America. Newsmax.com.
While the details are unknown due to a confidentiality agreement, reports emerged that Colin Kaepernick and Eric Reid both settled their cases against the NFL. Hearings were to take place later this month. sports.yahoo.com.
Before a game against the Oakland Raiders, Kayla Morris, a member of the San Francisco 49ers cheerleading squad “Gold Rush,” knelt during the national anthem. newsweek.com.
Colin Kaepernick receives prestigious award from Harvard University for activism and significant contributions to African and African American culture. In his speech, Kaepernick declares that love underlay his decision to protest during the national anthem. Kaepernick also relayed that defining moment for him occurred shortly after he began protesting and
President Trump’s campaign store includes in its inventory a football jersey with the words “Standup For America” on the front and the president’s surname on the back. The President has been a vocal critic of the protests during the anthem. nypost.com.
Eric Reid is signed by the Carolina Panthers. Reid noted that his collusion case would continue. ESPN.com.
Eric Reid, believed to also be subject to an NFL blackball and for which he filed a collusion lawsuit, is signed by the Carolina Panthers. usatoday.com.
Harvard University announces that it will honor Colin Kaepernick with its W.E.B. DuBois award, the university’s highest honor in the field of African and African-American studies. The award “honors those who have made significant contributions to African and African American history and culture, and more broadly, individuals who advocate for
Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker criticized those who do not stand for the anthem, stating that not doing so showed disrespect to veterans. Walker also criticized NFL players, contending that remaining in the locker room during the ritual was unacceptable. WTMJ.com.
Nike reveals that Colin Kaepernick will be the face of the campaign to mark its 30 year anniversary with an ad containing the phrase “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything. Just do it.” The deal will include Kaepernick’s own branded clothing and apparel. cbssports.com.
POTUS criticized ESPN for its decision not to broadcast the national anthem during a rally in West Virginia, calling the move a terrible one. bleacherreport.com.
Following the first pre-season game where a number of NFL players demonstrated during the national anthem, POTUS criticized the protests. He stated, among other things, that players cannot articulate why they are protesting, and that they had chosen the inappropriate place to protest. vox.com.
President Trump commented on the recent news that the NFL and the NFLPA had decided to pause implementation of the new national anthem policy. POTUS asked whether contracts contained a mandatory standing provision, and noted that the NFL commissioner should suspend players one game for a first offense of not
Marl Wilf makes a statement on behalf of the Minnesota Vikings supporting the NFL’s anthem policy. In response to a query regarding the Vikings’ stance if a player decides to remain in the locker room, Wilf noted that as an immigrant he understood the meaning and respect for the flag
During an impromptu press conference, POTUS revisited the anthem policy and noted that players have yet to provide him with any pardon recommendations. POTUS also noted that players should refrain from getting political, and implied that players do not have a legitimate basis to protest since they are making $15
During an impromptu discussion with reporters, POTUS states that players should not remain in the locker room during the national anthem; and since they are protesting criminal injustice, he is going to ask them for names of those whom they believe have been unfairly imprisoned so that he could either
Bears Chairman George McCaskey discusses the NFL’s new national anthem policy stating that while not perfect, it will return to anthem to being a “unifying force.” McCaskey notes both that the protests brought important issues to the nation’s attention, and the Bears’ position is that players should stand for the
Donald Trump disinvites the Philadelphia Eagles to the White House, which included the Press Secretary issuing a statement asserting that players did not want to attend because of POTUS’ national anthem stance. POTUS noted that since only a small delegation of players were going to attend, he was canceling the
Representative Peter King from New York issues a tweet expressing anger at the decision of New York Jets’ Chairman Chris Johnson to pay any fines should his players decide to protest during the national anthem. King asked whether Johnson would “support all player protests? Would he pay fines of players
Art Rooney II, owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers, issues statement asserting that the policy strikes a balance between not forcing players to stand for the anthem, and not forcing fans, particularly veterans, to view a political protest. The statement praised the manner in which the Steelers handled the protest issue
Donald Trump, during an interview, noted that he does not think NFL players should be allowed to remain in the locker room in protest of the national anthem, but that the new anthem policy was good. He also suggested that those who chose to remain in the locker room should
The NFLPA issues a statement noting that it had not been consulted on the NFL’s anthem decision, and that it intends to challenge any aspect of the national anthem policy which violates the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Further, NFLPA, executive director of the NFLPA, issued a series of tweets criticizing the
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced the new national anthem policy which requires players to stand if they are on the sidelines. Players are allowed to remain in the locker room or otherwise off the football field during the anthem. Teams will be fined if players fail to “stand and show
Jeff Lurie issues a statement in which he focused on the actions of players in the community and their dedicaiton to social justice, which he noted demonstrated respect for the country. nbcsports.com.
Jaguars owner Shad Khan issues statement on the NFL’s new anthem policy. The statement focused on a mutual desire for respect for the flag and the advancement of social justice causes. news4jax.com.
The NFLPA files two grievances on behalf of Eric Reid surrounding focus on his protest during the anthem and the failure of the Cincinnati Bengals to pursue a contract with him based upon his intent to protest in the future. The NFLPA had informed players who protested to alert the
Eric Reid files a collusion grievance against the NFL, joining Kaepernick, as he remains an unsigned free agent despite a solid year and being a Pro Bowler. Reid will be represented by Marg Geragos, the same attorney representing Kaepernick in his own collusion case. Businessinsider.com.
Colin Kaepernick was honored as the 2018 Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience. According to the organization “[t]he Ambassador of Conscience award celebrates the spirit of activism and exceptional courage, as embodied by Colin Kaepernick. He is an athlete who is now widely recognised for his activism because of his refusal
Bob McNair states in an interview that he did not regret his comment regarding the players protests that the “inmates” were running the prison; but he did regret apologizing for it. McNair apologized multiple times last year, which did not abate the decision by nearly the entire team to kneel
Stephen Ross, owner of the Miami Dolphins, was reported to have stated that all of his players would have to stand during the national anthem this upcoming football season; however, Ross provided a clarification the following day. Ross stated “I have no intention of forcing our players to stand during
POTUS issues a Super Bowl LII message that focuses primarily on thanking the members of the Armed Forces; however, the message also mentioned the national anthem in a subtle dig at players who’d refused to stand for the anthem during the season. The relevant passage noted: “We owe these heroes
Report that Congresswoman Diane Black will take out a pre-game Superbowl ad asking attendees to stand for the anthem. The ad states “it’s too bad that the league doesn’t respect the patriotism of our national anthem.” The move appears to be in response to the rejection by the NFL of
Dick Cass, president of the Baltimore Ravens, told season ticket holders in a letter that the protest in London adversely affected attendance at this season’s games. Cass stated, “[w]e had the poor showing in London, complicated by the kneeling of a dozen players during the national anthem. That became an
Kaepernick receives the 2017 Puffin/Nation Award for Creative Citizenship. This award “honors individuals that challenge the status quo through distinctive, courageous, imaginative, and socially responsible work of significance.” Perry Rosenstein, President of the Puffin Foundation, stated “Colin Kaepernick . . . courageously risked his position to focus attention on abuses
In describing the decision to name Kaepernick as winner of the Eason Monroe Courageous Advocate Award, the Southern California ACLU noted that he’d “[become] an international figure in the fight against racial injustice by kneeling in protest during the national anthem” though doing so cost him employment as an NFL
Sports Illustrated announces that it has named Kaepernick as the recipient of the 2017 Muhammad Ali Legacy Award. “Each year SI and the Ali family honor a figure who embodies the ideals of sportsmanship, leadership and philanthropy and has used sports as a platform for changing the world.” Citing Kaepernick’s
Reports emerge that the NFL and the Players’ Coalition reach a deal wherein $90 million dollars will be given to social justice causes, with the implicit understanding that protests during the anthem would end. Eric Reid, Kenny Stills, Michael Thomas, and Russell Okung split from the Players’ Coalition, citing lack
POTUS continues expressing his discontent with protests during the national anthem in which a reported 24 players participated during Week 12. POTUS tweeted that NFL attendance is suffering as a result and 4 players kneeling this weekend at NFL stadiums that are now having a very hard time filling up,”
POTUS comments on a tweet calling New York Giants player, Olivier Vernon, ungrateful for kneeling on Thanksgiving during the national anthem, which was sung by a United States Army Soldier. POTUS tweets that players continue to kneel without penalty; that Roger Goodell has lost control of the league; and that
POTUS responds to reports that the NFL is considering returning to its policy prior to 2009 wherein teams did not emerge from the lockerroom until after the national anthem. POTUS tweeted “[t]he NFL is now thinking about a new idea – keeping teams in the Locker Room during the National
POTUS tweets that Marshawn Lynch of the Oakland Raiders, who remained seated for the United States’ national anthem, and stood for the Mexican national anthem, should be suspended for the remainder of the season. Lynch has remained seated during the national anthem for every game n 2017, including during the
Kaepernick is named GQ’s Citizen of the Year. Per the editors, Kaepernick earned the honor by serving as the catalyst for a national movement of protest against racism and police brutality when he decided to kneel during the national anthem. GQ.com.
Report published stating that the California chapter of the NAACP will enlist the assistance of its state legislators to rescind the Star Spangled Banner as the national anthem. Alice Huffman, the chapter’s president, called the song “one of the most racist, pro-slavery, anti-black songs in the American lexicon.” Sacbee.com.
For the first time since the protests began in 2016, a major NFL sponsor publicly states that the anthem protests against racism are adversely affecting business. John Schattner, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Papa Johns pizza, stated “[t]he NFL has hurt us. We are disappointed the NFL and its
Following McNair’s comment that many deemed racist, all but 11 Texans players kneel during the national anthem, making this one of the largest anthem protests against racism by professional athletes. USAToday.com.
Texans owner issues a second apology, both in writing and verbally at a meeting with players prior to their departure for their game against the Seattle Seahawks. In this written apology, McNair contended that his comment was not in reference to players, but the relationship between the NFL league office
The Houston NAACP and several Texas legislators, including congressional representative Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Tx), hold a press conference reference McNair’s comments. Lee noted “[w]e need to engage in real hard discussions to rise above the perceptions that we have of each other. We need to end racial conflict.” On McNair’s
Amid extensive backlash following the publication of his “inmates” remark, Bob McNair issues an apology. Several infuriated Texans players left the practice facility, with some not returning for practice. A team meeting was held to attempt to address the controversial comment, and players has to be persuaded not to stage
Included in an ESPN The Magazine in-depth report on the October 18, 2017 NFL owners meeting is a comment by Bob McNair, owner of the Houston Texans that “we can’t have the inmates running the prison.” McNair’s comment was in response to the issue of players engaging in national anthem
Following reports that several NFL players continued to protest during the national anthem at Sunday’s games despite the encouragement by Goodell and the owners that they stand, POTUS responds by tweeting “[t]wo dozen NFL players continue to kneel during the National Anthem, showing total disrespect to our Flag & Country.
The Trump Make America Great Again Committee, POTUS’s campaign committee, launches a petition encouraging signatures by those who stand for the national anthem. The petition states “[t]he President has asked for a list of supporters who stand for the National Anthem. Add your name below to show your patriotism and
POTUS, not pleased with the NFL’s announcement following its annual meeting that the league will not require players to stand during the national anthem, sends two tweets in response. The first stated that such a decision is a sign of “[t]otal disrespect for our great country!” The second stated that
Reports surface about a letter written by the Jacksonville Jaguars in which Jaguars president, Mark Lamping, apologizes for the team’s September 24, 2017 protest during the national anthem in London, England. The letter, dated October 6, 2017, sent to the City of Jacksonville Director of Military Affairs and Veterans Department,
Report surfaces that Georgia State representative, Earl Ehrhart (R-23), exchanged text messages with the county sheriff, Neil Warren, wherein Ehrhart takes credit for a policy change which kept protesting Kennesaw State cheerleaders off the field during the national anthem. This contradicted earlier reports by the university that the policy change
NFL Commissioner confirms following the first day of the league’s annual meeting, in which anthem discussions were prominently featured, that no rule will be instituted mandating players stand for the national anthem. CBSNews.com.
During a press conference in the Rose Garden, POTUS responds to a question about remarks made by his 2016 election opponent, Hillary Clinton, in which she expressed support for the NFL players’ protest. POTUS repeated his previous remarks that those who knelt or remained seated during the anthem should be
Scott Walker, Governor of Wisconsin, writes a letter to the NFL and NFLPA stating that players should stand for the anthem and change the focus of their protest. Walker noted “[i]t is time for players in the NFL to stop their protests during the anthem and move on from what
Kaepernick files a grievance alleging that NFL owners colluded, in violation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, to deny him employment on the basis of his peaceful protest against racism during the national anthem. SBNation.com.
German Soccer team Hertha Berlin becomes the first international sports organization to take a knee in support of the anthem protests against racism. Players, including coaching staff and officials, knelt before a match in Berlin. The team tweeted “Hertha BSC stands for tolerance and responsibility! For a tolerant Berlin and
POTUS includes his thoughts on the NFL protests in this week’s address. After remarks on flag symbology and history, POTUS stated “[b]efore watching a football game, you want to see those players be proud of their country. Respect our country. Respect our flag. And respect our national anthem and we
Russell Okung, an offensive lineman for the Los Angeles Chargers, writes a letter to all NFL players encouraging them to organize in an effort to counter owners’ actions regarding national anthem protests. After noting his opposition last season to Kaepernick’s protest, Okung wrote that he has come to realize that
POTUS states during an interview that the NFL should have suspended Kaepernick last season when he first knelt during the national anthem; and that the penalties should gradually increased resulting in suspension for the entire season if Kaepernick’s kneeling persisted. YouTube.com.
POTUS responded to Goodell’s letter tweeting that it was about time the NFL demand that players stand during the national anthem. The NFL, via Goodell and a league spokesperson, disavowed any rule change requiring standing. The spokesperson provided that “commentary this morning about the Commissioner’s position on the Anthem is
Following extensive backlash from Goodell’s letter proclaiming that players should stand for the anthem and fueling speculation that they would be forced to do so, the NFL and NFLPA issue a joint statement clarifying that there has been no change to the anthem policy. Twitter.com/NFLPA.
The interim President and Chief Executive Officer of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, issues a response critical of Jones’s ultimatum, calling the move insensitive and a violation of the players’ constitutional rights. The NAACP’s Senior Director of Corporate Affairs, former NFL Player Tony Covington, also weighed in stating “Jerry Jones’ comments
POTUS queries why the NFL is receiving tax breaks while allowing activity that he considers disrespectful to the “[a]nthem, [f]lag, and [c]ountry.” The NFL relinquished its tax exempt status, which only applied to NFL headquarters and not the 32 individual teams, in 2015. CBSSports.com.
Roger Goodell, in an apparent shift from the NFL’s previous position which supported players’ right to protest since this act is not precluded by NFL rules, sends a letter to team owners in which he states that he believes everyone should stand for the national anthem. Goodell noted “[t]he controversy
POTUS congratulates Jerry Jones on his tough, and much criticized, national anthem protest declaration. POTUS summarized the Cowboys owner’s stance as “[s]tand for the Anthem or sit for the game.” Sportingnews.com.
In response to reports supporting the speculation that VP Pence’s early departure from the 49ers Colts game was a publicity stunt, POTUS responds that the trip to Indianapolis had been “long planned.” Speculation arose because the traveling press pool was told to remain in the vehicle as VP Pence would
Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys, declares that he would bench players who do not stand for the national anthem. Jones states that not standing for the flag angered many Cowboy fans, and was disrespectful to the flag and the anthem. He was motivated to speak publicly about his
Vice President Pence, former governor of Indiana, attended an NFL game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Indianapolis Colts. The 49ers had knelt during the national anthem the previous week, and did so again today. Following the anthem, VP Pence left the game. He posted a statement via Twitter
J.T. Brown of the Tampa Bay Lightning becomes the first professional hockey player to demonstrate during the national anthem in protest of racial inequality. J.T. raised his fist during before the Lightning’s game against the Florida Panthers. SI.com.
Reports emerge that Martha Ford, owner of the Detroit Lions, informed players that if they agreed not to kneel during the national anthem, she would make donations to charitable causes of their choice. CBSSports.com.
Several NFL players remain seated, kneel, or raise fists during the national anthem. Additionally, while far fewer players engaged in protest as compared to the previous week, there were more protests today than there had been prior to POTUS’s September 22, 2017 controversial remarks. NYTimes.com.
POTUS sent out two tweets regarding the anthem protests: one stating that standing for games scheduled for Sunday is “[v]ery important;” and another which included a video from a November 9, 2016 National Hockey League game depicting attendees and players standing during the anthem, along with the text “19,000 RESPECTING
As the start of the NBA season looms near, deputy commissioner Mark Tatum sent a memorandum to all NBA owners, presidents, and managers reminding teams of the NBA’s decades long rule requiring players to stand for the national anthem. The memo encouraged discussions with players to hear their thoughts on
Chris Christie, Governor of New Jersey, stated that, while he generally supports protests, he believes doing so during the anthem is disrespectful. Christie also stated that the players overreacted to POTUS’s comments; and while their protests were lawful, people also had the right to respond to them. Newsmax.com.
After stopping to speak with reporters on White House grounds, POTUS states that he is happy players on the teams that had played in the previous night’s NFL game–the Greenbay Packers and the Chicago Bears–stood for the anthem. POTUS mentioned that he’d spoken with NFL owners, and noted that his
Referencing the NFL players’ protests, state representative Julio Gonzalez (R-Venice)tweeted “It’s not about disrespecting you. I just wanted to raise awareness of what happens when I punch you in the face. #BoycotttheNFL.” A twitter beef ensued with random Twitter users, which included further threats of violence. Gonzalez contended that his
During an interview for morning show Fox & Friends, POTUS spoke about a number of issues, including the NFL protests. POTUS reiterated his belief that the protests disrespect the flag, national anthem, and servicemembers; but he added his assessment that some NFL owners, to whom he said he’d spoken, are
Senator Pat Toomey (R-Pa.) criticizes the NFL player protests during the national anthem, calling them disrespectful and inappropriate. Toomey states that the protests fail to honor military veterans and that everyone should stand during its playing. Senator Tim Scott (R-SC) echoed Toomey’s sentiments, contending that “[e]very man, woman, child in
While speaking to reporters at the White House, POTUS responds to questions regarding the NFL protests and states that the NFL’s business model will go to hell unless it enacts a rule prohibiting protests during the national anthem. Washingtontimes.com.
Representative Richmond follows up his September 25, 2017 statement with a letter to POTUS. The letter expresses Richmond’s “utter disgust” with POTUS’s handling of race relations in general, and the NFL player protests in particular. Richmond castigated POTUS for being divisive, asserting that POTUS lacks empathy for the history and
After several New Orleans Saints remained seated during the national anthem on Sunday September 24, 2017, Governor John Bel Edwards stated that though the players had a constitutional right to engage in the protests, they were not the “right thing to do.” He also stated that there were others ways
During a joint press conference with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, POTUS answered questions about the ongoing feud with the NFL. He repeated statements that protests during the anthem were disrespectful to servicemembers and the flag, and that he was ashamed they’d taken place. POTUS also published tweets noting the
Congressman Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) takes a knee on the House floor in solidarity with NFL players’ protest against racial inequality and injustice. Pocan went on to note that he found the act of taking a knee to be itself a sign of patriotism and respect for the country. Washingtonexaminer.com.
Roger Goodell held a round table meeting attended by 25 owners, executives, and players to discuss the anthem protests. One player, Jonathan Cassilas of the New York Giants, attended the meeting and stated that it was “clear to all sides that kneeling during the national anthem is not conveying the
Republican lawmakers angered by NFL players’ protests during the national anthem suggest that tax incentives provided to NFL teams at the state and federal level should be eliminated; lawmakers assert that taxpayers should not subsidize teams and their stadiums if players are allowed to protest. Washingtonpost.com.
Cedric Richmond, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, releases a statement on POTUS’s “petty” and “prejudiced” remarks. Richmond emphasized that after having read the sundry statements by the NFL commissioner and team owners, none of them addressed the core issue of police brutality that is at the heart of the
Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Tex.) utilized a special congressional procedural to register her objections to POTUS’s anthem protest condemnations and to defend the First Amendment. Lee stated “I kneel in front of the flag and on this floor, I kneel in honor of the First Amendment, I kneel because the
U.S. Representative Marsha Blackburn (R-TN-7) files a congressional resolution reminding Americans of the U.S. Flag Code, contained at 36 U.S.C. §301. This statute provides guidance regarding conduct during the national anthem. The statute is not punitive and, as such, its provisions are simply recommendations. Failure to comply is not a civil
POTUS responds to accusations that his criticisms of players has nothing to do with race, but instead is based upon his belief that they are disrespecting the country and the American flag. POTUS went on to praise NASCAR and its supporters for standing during the national anthem; tweet a photo
NASCAR owners are unequivocal in their position that NASCAR employees must stand for the national anthem. Several owners note that failure to do so would result in termination. USAToday.com.
As players throughout the nation engage in anthem protests against racism, POTUS continues his running commentary, including audience reactions and providing his thoughts on the inappropriateness of the protests. Tampabay.com
Estimates are that more than 250 NFL players participated in a national anthem protest against racism. This is the largest number of athletes engaging in such a protest to date in United States history. Players knelt or remained seated, while others stood with their fists raised during the national anthem.
Tennessee state lawmakers made varying remarks over the next few days regarding the protests. While some like Representative Raumesh Akbari encouraged kneeling during the anthem, Representatives Martin Daniel and Paul Bailey expressed disapproval, threatening to cease watching or attending games if Titan players protested. Tennessean.com.
Roger Goodell issues a statement in which he called Donald Trump’s comments “divisive,” and that they showed a lack of respect for the league and its players. POTUS responded that Goodell was simply trying to justify disrespect of the United States. CBSnews.com
The NFLPA issues a lengthy statement in response to POTUS’s comments. Both NFLPA executive director DeMaurice Smith and President Eric Winston provide comments. Excerpts include Smith stating “[n]o man or woman should ever have to choose a job that forces them to surrender their rights. No worker nor any athlete, professional
Several NFL team owners, including the New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, Greenbay Packers, and Atlanta Falcons, release statements in response to the comments by POTUS. SI.com
Following the backlash of his comments on Friday, 22 September 2017, Donald Trump doubled down on his admonition of NFL players protesters, tweeting “[I]f a player wants the privilege of making millions of dollars in the NFL, or other leagues,” “he or she should not be allowed to disrespect our
Bruce Maxwell, catcher for the Oakland Athletics, becomes the first MLB player to take a knee during the national anthem in protest of racial injustice. Maxwell noted that his decision to do so had “been coming for a long time.”SFGate.com
During a rally in Alabama, Donald Trump asserted that NFL owners should fire players who protest during the national anthem, stating “[w]ouldn’t you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say, ‘Get that son of a bitch off the field right now. Out!
Eleven Cleveland Brown players knelt during the national anthem at their preseason game against the New York Giants. This demonstration is the country’s largest professional sports national anthem protest. CBSSports.com.
At a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals, Marshawn Lynch of the Oakland Raiders remained seated during the national anthem, signaling the first such instance of the 2017 season. While it is not clear what Marshawn’s motive was for remaining seated, it is reasonable to assume an anti-racism basis given a previous pro-Black statement. SI.com,
Reports from a July 30, 2017 Baltimore Ravens fan forum reveal that owner Steve Bisciotti is considering the reactions of fans and sponsors to the prospect of signing Kaepernick. The team has reached out to the Ravens’ fan base via its website to “scrimmage” the decision. NinerswireUSAtoday.com, Profootballtalk.nbcsports.com.
Congressman Cedric Richmond, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, stated during a Thirty-Mile Zone (TMZ) interview that Kaepernick’s status as a free agent was unfair, noting that Kaepernick was far more talented than many current NFL backup quarterbacks. Richmond further stated that Kaepernick should not be punished for taking a principled stand and exercising
New York Giants owner John Mara is the first NFL owner to essentially admit that the decision not to sign Kaepernick is related to Kaepernick’s national anthem protests. MMQB.SI.com
Report that Kaepernick memorabilia worn during protests, such as his jersey and shoes, will be displayed by the Smithsonian National Museum of African-American History and Culture in honor of his national anthem protests. USAtoday.com.
Report that NFL executives intend to blackball Kaepernick due to his 2016 national anthem protests against racism. Bleacherreport.com
In response to Megan Rapinoe’s 2016 national anthem protests against racism, U.S. Soccer unveiled its new policy adopted on February 9, 2017 which requires that “[a]ll persons representing a Federation national team shall stand respectfully during the playing of national anthems at any event in which the Federation is represented.”
Report that Kaepernick will end his national anthem protest against racism during the 2017 NFL season because he does not want to detract from the progress made by his 2016 protest, and he believes that the nationwide spreading of the protests affirmed his underlying message. ESPN.com.
Admiral Harry B. Harris, Jr., commander of the Department of Defense’s pacific region geographic combatant command, United States Pacific Command, disparages those engaged in national anthem protests when he states during an official ceremony marking the 75th anniversary of Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor that the men and women who died
Report that Chicago residents, including military veterans and police officers, intend to organize a rally in an attempt to persuade Kaepernick to stand for the national anthem when the Chicago Bears host the San Francisco 49ers at Soldier Field on December 4, 2016. NBCbayarea.com.
A local Las Vegas news station reports that Dylan Bruton, a student and football player at Bishop Gorman High School, a private catholic high school, was suspended for remaining seated during the national anthem at a Veteran’s Day assembly. Dylan Bruton is the first student suspended for participating in a national
Dylan Burton decided to remain seated during the national anthem at his Bishop Gorman high school’s Veteran’s Day ceremony. Kaepernick’s protest was an inspiration to Burton. In response, Bishop Gorman officials suspended Burton. Additionally, Burton was informed that in order to remain at the school, he would have to: 1)
Alan Clark, an Arkansas state senator, announces that he has taken steps to facilitate a hold on the University of Arkansas’s budget based upon the students’ November 3, 2016 national anthem protest. Clark’s tweet stated “[h]old placed on UA’s budget and amendment being prepared to remove equal funding as women’s basketball budget. UA’s leadership out
Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson issues a statement which, while recognizing the students’ right to express their opinions, indicates that their national anthem protest was disrespectful. Arkansasonline.com.
Following the national anthem protest against racism on the same evening by Jordan Danberry, Tatiyana Smith, Kiara Williams, Jailyn Mason, Yasmeen Ratliff, and Briunna Freeman of the University of Arkansas women’s basketball team, several Arkansas state government officials, including Representative Laurie Rushing, Senator Jason Rapert, and Senator Jim Hendren, make disparaging remarks about the
The Philadelphia 76ers issue an apology to Sevyn Streeter for not allowing her to sing the national anthem, and invited her back to do so on a night of her choosing. ESPN.com.
Shortly before the scheduled performance time, the Philadelphia 76ers informs contracted singer Sevyn Streeter that she will not be allowed to perform the national anthem because she was wearing a “We Matter” shirt. The team issues a statement saying that its games are meant to “bring people together.” ESPN.com.
Report that National Basketball Association Commissioner Adam Silver says players standing for the national anthem is “the appropriate thing to do.” ESPN.com.
Following comments by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay which were critical of national anthem protests against racism, Terricka Cromartie, wife of Antonio Cromartie, contends that the Colts released her husband Antonio Cromartie because of his national anthem protests. This is the first report of an NFL player being released as a direct result of a
Report that officials cancelled the season of the Beaumont Bulls, a Texas Youth Football team of 11 and 12 years olds, as a result of the players’ September 10 and 17, 2016 national anthem protests against “racism and injustice.” NYdailynews.com, Thelab.bleacherreport.com.
Justice Ginsburg releases statement saying that her earlier comments on not standing for the national anthem were “inappropriately dismissive and harsh,” and that she “should have declined to respond.” ESPN.com.
The American Legion Executive Committee issued a resolution requiring all of its program participants to “show proper respect to the Flag of the United States, at all times, including during the National Anthem.” Failure to do so results in removal from American Legion programs. The resolution was in direct response to
Frank Dolan, a member of the Richmond County School Board, recommends suspension from the team, squad, or band of any student athlete, cheerleader, or band member who does not stand for the national anthem. Chronicle.augusta.com.
Leah Tysse becomes the first national anthem singer to engage in a national anthem protest against racism while singing the national anthem. She did so at a Sacramento Kings exhibition game. Sacramento.cbslocal.com.
United States Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg calls the act of not standing during the national anthem “dumb and disrespectful” during an interview for Yahoo News. Yahoo.com.
North Carolina governor, Pat McCrory, calls the East Carolina University band members’ decision to kneel during the national anthem in protest of racism “extremely inappropriate.” Twitter.com/PatMcCroryNC.
The Professional Bull Riders organization issues an official statement noting that all of its riders have pledged to stand during the national anthem. PBR.com.
Anthony Ervin, member of the USA Swimming National Team, is shown in a photograph captured by sports journalist David Zirin with his fist raised during the national anthem. Ervin becomes the first reported professional swimmer* to participate in the national anthem protests against racism. Twitter.com/EdgeofSports.
Nationwide reporting begins asserting that the national anthem protests against racism have negatively affected NFL television ratings. Profootballtalk.nbcsports.com, Hotair.com.
Concordia University adjunct professor Susan Quade is fired after refusing to apologize for stating that she would kill Kaepernick for engaging in his national anthem protests. Insidehighered.com.
Time magazine announces that Colin Kaepernick will be featured on the cover of its October 3 issue. This issue will feature several articles centered on the national anthem protests against racism. SBnation.com.
A poll of Americans finds that Kaepernick is the most disliked player in the NLF. Twitter.com/sportscenter.
Belmont University reports that it has expelled one of its students, Justin Woodard, after he directed a death threat and racial epithets towards three Philadelphia Eagle football players who raised their fists during the national anthem. Woodard is the first student expelled for threats against individuals participating in national anthem protests against racism. Fusion.net.
The Broward County Sherriff’s Office Deputies Association president, Jeff Bell, issues an organization letter requesting that its members cease all escort duties for Miami Dolphins players, staff, and family members, and that all law enforcement personnel at the Broward County Sherriff’s Office cease providing security at Miami Dolphins football games
United States Soccer issues an official statement discouraging national anthem protests, stating “we have an expectation that our players and coaches will stand and honor our flag while the national anthem is played.” The statement is issued in response to Megan Rapinoe’s national anthem protests. ESPN.com.
Reuters conducts first poll on the national anthem protests against racism. Key findings are that 61% of respondents do not agree with the national anthem protests against racism; 72% of respondents believe the national anthem protests against racism are unpatriotic; and 64% of respondents agree that the U.S. Constitution guarantees the
Missouri state senator Jamilah Nasheed becomes the first legislator to participate in the national anthem protests against racism, via inspiration, when she remained seated during the pledge of allegiance during a state senate session. Theroot.com.
Report that Congressman Steve King of Iowa’s Fourth District states during an interview that the activism reflected by Kaepernick’s national anthem protest “is sympathetic to ISIS.” NYDailynews.com.
Report that the Diocese of Camden, which controls several private Catholic high schools in south New Jersey, issued a letter dated September 2, 2016 which directs that failure by any sports team player or coach to “show respect during. . .the playing or singing of the National Anthem” will result
Kelsey Bone, member of the Women’s National Basketball Association’s Phoenix Mercury, becomes the first professional basketball player* to participate in the national anthem protests against racism. Arizonadailyindependent.com.
After Miami Dolphins players Arian Foster, Jelani Jenkins, Kenny Stills, and Michael Thomas kneel during the national anthem earlier in the day, the Miami Dolphins issue a statement that while players are encouraged to stand for the national anthem, the organization respects the right of its players to reflect on the national
Bill Lynch, owner of the Washington Spirit, National Women’s Soccer League, issues a letter stating that his team deliberately played the national anthem before the match between the Washington Spirit and the Seattle Reign to prevent Megan Rapinoe from engaging in a national anthem protest. Theundefeated.com.
Keyanna Morrow, Jade Berry, and Roytihala Brown, students and volleyball team members at West Virginia University’s Institute of Technology, become the first reported college students* to participate in the national anthem protests against racism. Wsaz.com.
Kaepernick’s jersey becomes the number one seller in the NFL following his national anthem protest. Kaepernick announces that he will donate the proceeds of his jersey sales “back into the communities.” Forbes.com, ESPN.com.
President Barack Obama provides supportive words regarding Kaepernick’s right not to stand for the national anthem, noting that Kaepernick is part of a legacy of athletes who have exercised their constitutional right to make a statement. Profootballtalk.com.
Megan Rapinoe, member of the Seattle Reign, National Women’s Soccer League, and the United States Women’s National Team, becomes the first professional soccer player* to participate in the national anthem protests against racism. CBSnews.com.
Santa Clara Police Chief issues statement encouraging the Santa Clara Police Officers’ Association members to reconsider its proposed security boycott of San Francisco 49ers games. Santaclaraca.gov.
Kaepernick’s jersey becomes the number one seller on the San Francisco 49ers website following his national anthem protest. Ninersnation.com.
The Santa Clara Police Officers’ Association, the principal police organization which provides security officers on a volunteer basis for San Francisco 49ers football games, issues a letter stating that its members may cease working the games. The association cited Kaepernick’s comments on police brutality and the San Francisco 49ers’ failure to discipline
Tarell Gissendanner, Jalil Grimes, Christian Wells, and other unnamed members of the Aurora Central High School football team (Aurora, Colorado), as well as Rodney Axson and two unnamed players of the Brunswick High School football team (Brunswick, Ohio), become the first the high school students* reported to participate in the
San Francisco 49er safety Eric Reid and Seattle Seahawk cornerback Jeremy Lane become the first NFL players* to join Kaepernick and the national anthem protests against racism. NFL.com.
During a meeting also attended by former Special Forces Soldier and NFL long snapper Nate Boyer, Kaepernick’s San Francisco 49ers teammate Eric Reid recommended that Kaepernick change his protest method to kneeling instead of remaining seated during the national anthem. ESPN.com.
A report details interviews with seven NFL executives who made statements reflecting a hatred of Kaepernick, stating that Kaepernick is a traitor and the most despised player amongst NFL executives. These executives further stated that they did not want him on their football teams, a sentiment they say is shared by 90-95% of
Presidential candidate Donald Trump criticizes Kaepernick’s decision not stand for the national anthem, calling it “a terrible thing” and stating that Kaepernick should consider finding another country that works for him. SI.com.
Nationwide reporting begins regarding the Star Spangled Banner’s third stanza which contains lyrics that refer to the killing of slaves, and is widely considered racist. Theintercept.com, Theundefeated, CNN.com
Marcus Newsome, a U.S. Army veteran, initiates the Twitter hashtag #Veteransforkaepernick to demonstrate veteran support for Kapernick’s national anthem protest against racism, and to counter the narrative that the protests are disrespectful to current and former members of the United States military. Huffingtonpost.com, BBC.com, Buzzfeed.com.
Current and former athletes from across sports leagues begin commenting on the national anthem protests against racism. A sample of early critical comments include those from New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (ESPN.com), Minnesota Vikings guard Alex Boone (ESPN.com), and former NFL quarterback Trent Dilfer(mercurynews.com). A sample of early supportive comments include former
Kaepernick provides a lengthy locker room interview to the press expounding upon the bases for his national anthem protest, and answering reporters’ questions on a number of related protest topics. Of note, Kaepernick states that there are several issues regarding racism upon which his protests are predicated. One of these issues is police brutality. SFchronicle.com, NFL.com.
The NFL issues statement regarding its policy that players are encouraged, but not obligated, to stand for the national anthem. NFL.com, Profootballtalk.com
The San Francisco 49ers issue a statement noting that while the national anthem is a special part of its pre-game ceremony, the organization recognizes the right of its players to decide whether or not they will participate in the celebration of the national anthem. Profootballtalk.nbcsports.com.
Steve Wyche conducts the first interview of Kaepernick regarding the national anthem protests. In this interview, Kaepernick reveals that the basis for his decision to remain seated during the national anthem is racism against Blacks and people of color in America. NFL.com.
Mike Garafolo informs fellow National Football League Network reporter, Steve Wyche, that Kaepernick did not stand for the national anthem at the San Francisco 49ers’ third preseason game against the Greenbay Packers. Richeisenshow.com.
Jennifer Lee Chan of Sports Blog Nation’s San Francisco 49ers site, Niners Nation, tweets out a photo which depicts Kaepernick sitting during the national anthem. The photo itself was unrelated to Kaepernick’s protest. Twitter.com/jenniferleechan.
Kaepernick remains seated during the national anthem at the San Francisco 49ers’ preseason game against the Denver Broncos. Again, this is not reported as Kaepernick did not suit up for the game. Twitter.com/MikeGarafolo, Heavy.com.
Colin Kaepernick remains seated during the national anthem at the San Francisco 49ers’ preseason game against the Houston Texans. This is not reported as Kaepernick did not suit up for the game. Twitter.com/MikeGarafolo, Heavy.com.
