Kap chose wrong time, wrong place
On Aug. 27, during the playing of our national anthem, Colin Kaepernick chose to sit rather than stand to express his displeasure with our nation’s racial inequalities. This was absolutely within his rights under the Constitution. His actions, however, will inadvertently take away from the point he was trying to make.
To have a civil and constructive conversation about this hot topic requires mutual respect. Without respect, we rarely hear each other or find any common ground upon which to build.
Our flag is intended to be a unifying symbol. It represents what we have in common with one another. A healthy and helpful discussion of the problems within our country can only be had if we stay connected to each other on those things that we share.
Mr. Kaepernick chose the wrong time or place to initiate this discussion, and as a result has made the debate about him rather than the issues which need to be addressed.
There are numerous other, and more appropriate, avenues he could have chosen. Sitting during the anthem wasn’t his best decision. Showing respect should always lead the way and will improve the chances of being heard by others.
Alan Newlove, Clovis
This story was originally published August 31, 2016 at 12:52 PM with the headline "Kap chose wrong time, wrong place."