In the column “We Have Nothing Left to Hold Us Together,” American columnist, Ben Shapiro, argues against athletes protesting the national anthem. He contends that the anthem symbolizes proud American ideals and unity, and that protesting it undermines the rights Americans hold and the ideologies they stand for. Shapiro’s claim that the anthem is a symbol for an ideal America, and the act of kneeling during, especially by privileged football players, only divides America is incorrect. Even though Shapiro states that love of country does not require love of all aspects of America, he says it means understanding what it was founded on. He claims that our founding fathers founded America on “a uniquely good basis.” While the ten commandments
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Shapiro goes on to say the flag stands for a good basis and “Not ethnic superiority or racial solidarity...but the notion of individual liberty and equal rights before God.” While America did promise more equality, that equality did not yet apply to everyone. Slaves had not yet been granted freedom or equal rights. This fact illustrates that American founders may have tried to create the best America they could, but to say the basis was good, is a bit of a stretch. Even with a disregard of his opinion about America’s founding, Shapiro misses that point on the true meaning of protesting the national anthem. He includes a quote from quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who he calls a “has-been”, where Kaepernick states his refusal to show pride in a country that oppresses minorities. After this statement, Shapiro says, “explained the man earning an average of $19,000,000 per year for sitting on the bench.” His addition of Kaepernick’s salary and activity on the field shows his misunderstanding of the protests. Kaepernick is merely utilizing the platform he has been given to peacefully stand up for the communities and groups who struggle to thrive in our society. Although Kaepernick may be wealthy, he is more than likely profoundly aware of the hardships
Shapiro goes on to say the flag stands for a good basis and “Not ethnic superiority or racial solidarity...but the notion of individual liberty and equal rights before God.” While America did promise more equality, that equality did not yet apply to everyone. Slaves had not yet been granted freedom or equal rights. This fact illustrates that American founders may have tried to create the best America they could, but to say the basis was good, is a bit of a stretch. Even with a disregard of his opinion about America’s founding, Shapiro misses that point on the true meaning of protesting the national anthem. He includes a quote from quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who he calls a “has-been”, where Kaepernick states his refusal to show pride in a country that oppresses minorities. After this statement, Shapiro says, “explained the man earning an average of $19,000,000 per year for sitting on the bench.” His addition of Kaepernick’s salary and activity on the field shows his misunderstanding of the protests. Kaepernick is merely utilizing the platform he has been given to peacefully stand up for the communities and groups who struggle to thrive in our society. Although Kaepernick may be wealthy, he is more than likely profoundly aware of the hardships