NFL players obey Trump's request

Over the last few weeks the conversation of sports and politics have evolved into one topic. Although conspiracy theories between entertainment and politics have always existed, fans are now seeing the reality of the little power their favorite athletes do not have. 

Recently, President Donald Trump, while speaking at a political rally said NFL fans should boycott games and team owners should fire players who fail to stand for the national anthem. Many acted as if they were appalled by Trump's comments, immediately pronouncing the first amendment, "freedom of speech." Although most of the NFL's owners and commissioners agreed that the players should honor the national anthem, they followed with statements like "we are proud of players for using their platforms to make a positive difference," but was the statement of oppression truly supported? 

During the 2016 NFL preseason, San Francisco quarterback Colin Kaepernick initiated a protest by sitting in solidarity during the national anthem. At the end of the game reporters circled Kaepernick immediately questioning his stance, and Kaepernick proudly stated that he would no longer honor a country where people of color are continuously being oppressed. Shortly after the 2016 NFL season ended, Kaepernick was released from his contract, being refused by every NFL organization. The NFL owners may say that they support their players, but shortly after Trump's statements at the rally, "coincidentally" all of the NFL players were once again standing for the national anthem, and Colin Kaepernick remain unemployed. Who cares if a knee was taking prior to  the star spangled banner being sung. The protest was about not following suit while everyone else was, not acknowledging injustice, but silently rebelling against it. Ultimately it's obvious that the players chose their careers over making a political difference in our society. Which is what most of us do on a day to day basis. 

Sport figures are often put on high pedestal, because they accomplish what the "average" person weren't born with or willing to work for. Which is why entertainers have the biggest influence on our society. People like LeBron James, Jay-Z and even Donald Trump impact audiences decisions, simply because of who they are. Their platform allows the "normal" everyday message to become facts in our world, which is why it's important who is allowed or above that power. As a person of color I commend any person in a powerful position who stands for what's right. Simple statements like Jay-Z declining to perform at the 2018 Super Bowl, a Lebron James openly calling the President a"bum" without apologizing, or Colin Kaepernick refusing to stand during the national anthem, is what transforms our society. By avoiding opportunities to have an open discussion regarding the inequality that people of color face on a daily basis Trump and his supporters will always "WIN." Don't settle for nothing remember " if there is no struggle there is no progress" Frederick Douglas.