HOT TOPICS
Kaepernick Controversy
Should quarterback take a seat or take a stand? PRO | Sabria Zlitni Every time I go to a Braves’ sporting event, the national anthem has been one of my favorite parts. Taking pride in my country has always filled me with spirit. Now, things have changed. As I hear the national anthem, I ask myself, how can I take pride in a country where innocent citizens walk the streets in fear of being shot for no reason other than the color of their skin? Some say that Colin Kaepernick’s actions are disrespectful and useless. I say that he could not have done a better job at expressing his beliefs. His decision to not participate in the national anthem does not mean he does not appreciate those who have fought for his freedoms. One of those freedoms being the freedom of speech, which he is actively choosing to exercise. Even though his actions seem minuscule, he has sparked a flame in America that is steadily growing into a wildfire. Until I truly believe that I am able to stand for a country that is indivisible, with liberty and justice for all, I support Colin Kaepernick.
Illustration | Jordan Thaxton
In a game played on Aug. 14, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick kneeled during the national anthem in protest of the mistreatment and wrongdoings against people of color to this day. Kaepernick has continued to kneel during the anthem and has gained both scorn and praise.
CON | Foster Hoch Recently, Colin Kaepernick decided against standing for the national anthem, and I am not supportive of his actions. Not standing for the anthem is disrespectful. If you are trying to make a change, then find another way to do it. There are thousands of men and women fighting for YOUR country, and if you don’t have the respect to stand for them and our country, then I have little respect for you. I understand the goal of the Kaepernick’s protest and the meaning behind it. It’s a reasonable and respectable cause, but isn’t there a way that he could make a change and take a stand in a more impacting and respectful way? I accept that it is his right to kneel during the national anthem and exercise his right of free speech, but there are a multitude of ways that he could’ve stood up for what he believes in. I’m upset with how he is showing kids, that look up to him, that it’s okay to disrespect our country. Show some respect for the country that allows you to make the millions that you do, and stand up.
TALKING POINTS | What’s your take on Colin Kaepernick?
Love it
Sweet VICTORY No doubt we love a Bonner win, but when it’s a homecoming game, the win feels ten times greater. Props to the football guys for playing hard and getting that win.
The Tee pee We are loving the new and improved “Brave Cave,” now known as The Tee Pee. The location is convenient, and we appreciate the new options, like the YoDots.
Hate it
Royal blues After the Royals’ big World Series win, we can’t help but feel let down by the performance of the Boys in Blue this season. No Blue Snow Day for us this November.
Detention policy
“I think it’s disrespectful and he doesn’t have the right to speak for everyone.”
“I think he’s really not being professional; he could handle the situation better.”
Kim Whetstone | 9
opinions | ISSUE 1 | SEPTEMBER 2016
Tanner hanson | 11
“It’s all for publicity. His career is going downhill so he needed something to fall back on.”
Jon ellis | 12
“I don’t think he should be taking a knee. Since my husband was in the military, I do think it’s disrespectful to all men in the military. He is not protesting the correct people.”
Stephanie Billet | staff
This year we have just two days to serve a detention, a difficult maneuver for those involved in after-school activities.
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