The NFL announced Wednesday a policy change involving players conduct during the national anthem. Going forward, players who don’t wish to stand during the national anthem have the option to stay in the locker room. However, should players or personnel decide not to stand during the anthem they will be fined.
“We want people to stand. That’s all personnel, and make sure they treat this moment in a respectful fashion,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a news conference revealing the new policy.
In a statement, the NFL Players Association slammed the new policy, making it clear they aren’t thrilled the league took this new measure without consulting with them.
“The NFL chose to not consult the union in the development of this new ‘policy,’” the NFLPA said “NFL players have shown their patriotism through their social activism, their community service, in support of our military and law enforcement and yes, through their protests to raise awareness about the issues they care about.
“The vote by NFL club CEOs today contradicts the statements made to our player leadership by Commissioner Roger Goodell and the Chairman of the NFL’s Management Council John Mara about the principles, values, and patriotism of our League. Our union will review the new “policy” and challenge any aspect of it that is inconsistent with the collective bargaining agreement.”
Source: thehill.com
