President Obama Stands Behind Colin Kaepernick’s Protest
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been the topic of controversy ever since he refused to stand during the national anthem- an act of protest he said was spurred by the inequality facing African-Americans in America.
The gesture has been widely debated since happening, with everyone from celebs to members of the military weighing in on whether or not the footballer disrespected his country. Now, President Obama himself has commented on the act of protest, saying that Kaepernick is exercising his right as an American- and may even have a point.
“He’s exercising his constitutional right to make a statement.” Obama said at the G20 summit in China, “If nothing else, what he’s done is he’s generated more conversation around some topics that need to be talked about.
“My suspicion is that over time he’s gonna refine how he’s thinking about it and maybe some of his critics will start seeing that he has a point around certain concerns about justice and equality. That’s how we move forward. Sometimes it’s messy, but that’s the way democracy works,” the president added.
Other notable figures that back Kaepernick include Spike Lee, rapper Tip, John Legend, Mark Cuban and many more.
Listen to President Obama’s full comments below:
Obama on @Kaepernick7: "I think he cares about some real, legitimate issues that have to be talked about." pic.twitter.com/htPDCsqg6c
— Michael Skolnik (@MichaelSkolnik) September 5, 2016
Kaepernick has continued to protest the National Anthem, choosing the kneel instead of standing and has been joined by athletes from all across sports in his efforts.
Photo Credit: Colin Kaepernick/Instagram
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