Amid the gradual trickling of teams announcing new policies that require players to stand during pre-game National Anthem ceremonies, the head of the NFL Players Association spoke out in defense of those asserting their Constitutional right, on Monday, October 9.
Following Sunday's games, at least two top team officials (Cowboys owner Jerry Jones and head coach of the Miami Dolphins Adam Gase) reported to the local press in their respective cities that no longer will they allow their players to kneel while the Star Spangled Banner is playing. Gase has given his players the option of remaining in the stadium tunnel until the anthem plays through, and while Jones wouldn't provide specifics, he said that players will be swiftly dealt with should they go about "disrespecting" the flag.
NFLPA Executive Director DeMaurice Smith followed those proclamations up by challenging the notion that players are being disrespectful with their demonstrations. In a statement issued by the NFLPA office, Smith noted that during a meeting between owners and the union, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and Management Council John Mara promised that players' Constitutional rights would be protected "without retribution."
"No player is disrespecting our country or our flag. As thousands have shown in the past, it takes bravery and courage to speak and confront these issues as our players have, especially when it is unpopular with some," Smith wrote.
He then advised that owners continue to support the players as opposed to condemning and countering their efforts to draw attention to issues of injustice and inequality. "There is room for management to do the same and maybe then players do not have to risk the taunts and threats alone. This is their opportunity to lead as well and will be a true test of their motto that "Football is Family," wrote Smith.
Source: latimes.com
