San Francisco 49ers star quarterback Colin Kaepernick is getting the support of some military veterans after protesting racial injustice and police brutality by sitting down during the “Star Spangled Banner.”
While many critics have questioned Kaepernick’s patriotism, the hashtag #VeteransForKaepernick shows people who identify as veterans tweeting photos of themselves in uniform with messages of support.
–DL Hughley on Colin Kaepernick: Blacks don’t get Sunday off from racism
The tweets show a range of views, from veterans who agree with Kaepernick’s views to others who disagree with his stance but defend his right to have it.
“I knew what I was walking into,” Kaepernick told reporters Tuesday. “That’s why it’s a sacrifice.”
–Colin Kaepernick receives backlash from white fans after refusing to stand for National Anthem
The 28-year-old football star says he plans to continue sitting out of the anthem, even as he heads into this week’s preseason game against the San Diego Chargers, who have already planned their annual Salute to the Military tribute.
Check out some of the most powerful tweets in support of Kaepernick’s sit-out.
–Obama to award Medal of Honor to 24 Army veterans
I serve for his right to protest.. I don't serve for Police Brutality.. #VeteransForKaepernick pic.twitter.com/Q6GUNTwHDO
— Big Jeaux (@JoeOnDemand) August 31, 2016
I was brave enough to defend the rights of EVERYONE… Even those who dislike people like me. #VeteransForKaepernick pic.twitter.com/NwHn9PD8ps
— Brandy P (@S4Diva1978) August 31, 2016
#VeteransForKaepernick because I didn't volunteer to defend a country where police brutality is swept under the rug. pic.twitter.com/LtBkTvHHAn
— Baltic Avenue (@Baltic_Avenue) August 31, 2016
https://twitter.com/DEdwardBeck/status/770814223794446337
@Kaepernick7 I served 25yrs in the AF to protect everyone's 1st Amend rights. I support you #VeteransForKaepernick pic.twitter.com/Q7r7PfvryA
— Nicki Jai (@dcmbrdiva) August 31, 2016
My father, a Marine, served his country in Vietnam. He says "we're far from justice for all" #VeteransForKaepernick pic.twitter.com/8jXspHSOE6
— Blake J. Stanfill (@ShimmiHendrix) August 31, 2016
https://twitter.com/brownlashon/status/770795856660279296
https://twitter.com/MsElectLadyKim/status/770793031578619904
https://twitter.com/elijahXL/status/770792439137366016