Opinion: If You Kneel, Don't Get Mad at Those That Stand

I have what I admit may be a very unpopular opinion, but I feel like I need to speak up anyway. In my opinion, there is a disturbing trend of people that choose to kneel during our national anthem shaming those that don't.

It's important that I be clear that I support peaceful protests. The key word there is "peaceful". I don't support violent protests that destroy property and/or hurt others. I have many friends of color who choose to use their freedom to kneel to show support for social injustices that have been done to them. I love them and have no problem with that whatsoever.

What I do have a problem with are certain media outlets and groups trying to shame those that decide to stand during the anthem. This video of athletes before a soccer game is a great example of standing to show your support for our country and troops while also supporting their friends.

The Washington Post shared a story about NBA's Gregg Popovich standing during the national anthem and taking heat for it. Why should he have to explain himself?

The most outrageous example of what I'm talking about is what happened to Pittsburgh Steeler Alejandro Villanueva. He is an Army Ranger who chose to not kneel during the national anthem before a game and stated that he was made to feel embarrassed. Watch what actually happened and tell me what he has to be embarrassed about.

Should he feel embarrassed? In my opinion, no way. He has just as much right to salute the flag of the country he fought for as those that peacefully protest social injustice. There is room for both in our country and if there isn't, I believe we have a very big problem.

By the way, I am not embarrassed by my opinion thank you very much.