When he decided to take a knee during the playing of the national anthem to protest police brutality, former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sparked a national discussion. His silent protest quickly expanded into a larger movement as many of his backers knelt to draw attention to the issue.
On the other hand, people’s reactions to kneeling during the anthem were mixed. While many people backed Kaepernick’s cause, others who are genuinely patriotic and proud of the US military saw this as disrespectful to the nation they love.
Beyond the NFL, other topics were discussed. The football team from Monroe High School in New Jersey supported Kaepernick’s campaign. Before a game, many of its players made the decision to kneel during the playing of the national anthem. Their show of unanimity, however, was not welcomed by all.
Ernie Lunardelli, 54, and Anthony Lunardelli, 27, are the officials for the match. They had a clear and immediate response to the student protest. Both felt compelled to leave the field in response to the kids’ protest in order to express their own dissatisfaction.
In his opposition, Ernie Lunardelli was very vocal. He acknowledged that everyone had the right to their own opinions, but he struggled to understand why such a protest would be held during the pregame ceremony. He feels that this time should only be used to promote the game’s spirit. Honoring his earlier agreement with the league’s commissions, Ernie left the field with his son in tow as soon as the players knelt.
Two cadets from the chain crew stepped in to serve as referees after they left. Ernie Lunardelli, on the other hand, did not like this change. He claimed that the sudden change in personnel had called into question the game’s credibility. In order to contest the game’s choice, he has even sought legal counsel.
The effects of Kaepernick’s protest are evident. It has both fervent supporters and opponents. The events at Monroe High School highlight the diversity of opinions on this important national issue.
One thing is certain as the nation struggles with this complexity: sports, which are typically seen as unifying forces, can also act as a potent forum for discussing divisive social issues.