National Anthem and Athlete Protests: Miscommunication and Suggestions to Advance Player Objectives

Ultimately, America is united in supporting the flag and National Anthem and against police brutality and racism. Unfortunately, the country is letting miscommunication divide us. The players should take different tactics rather than engaging in protests with muddled meanings which could be construed as un-American. Rather than kneeling during the National Anthem, NFL players should host events such as “Police-Community Flag Football Games” or youth clinics to foster trust between the police and inner-city communities. Rather than equivocating on the invitation to attend the White House, the Golden State Warriors could have requested that, in addition to the photo-op with President Trump, they have an official meeting to discuss issues important to them. These approaches would highlight the issues, advance the players’ objectives, foster national unity, and limit dissension.