Beyond The NFL Protest: Where Do We Go From Here?

The Importance of Figuring Out What Comes Next For Black Americans After The NFL Protest

America, ‘Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave.’ Though the infamous ‘Star-Spangled Banner’ national anthem screams those words, pridefully, as you all know, lately, the newly-established NFL protest has been on a mission to bring them to silence. In comparison to many countries, we are, undoubtedly, progressive. We are viewed as the nation of opportunity. Yet, still, the nation that people risk their lives to come taste a bit of our freedom has not moved past racism. In 2017, racism should be a taboo in our society–rather it’s publicly swept under the rug by people who don’t even understand the privilege they have, with commentary such as, “I don’t see color.” or “Don’t make everything about race.”

The value of life in America is decreasing, even more so for people of color. Illegally selling cigarettes should have resulted in a misdemeanor charge or incarceration, not a funeral. Failing to signal before making a turn should have resulted in a ticket, not a homicide. We’ve seen it time and time again, unfortunately, and each time the conclusion is the same–paid administrative leave, charged, no conviction. America was more outraged about the killing of Harambe than a twelve-year-old child being shot down by police.

People in a position of power automatically receive the title of a ‘role model’ in the communities, and, in some instances, rightfully so. Their voice, behaviors, and actions are on display for everyone to see, so it should be for the better. Colin Kaepernick used his influence as a celebrity and athlete to shed light on the social injustices that are going on within our nation by kneeling during the national anthem, which has since led to an NFL protest. A decision that came with an unprecedented amount support and backlash, alike. With the power of social media, we’ve become even more divisive, as the focus shifted from social injustice to disrespecting the American flag. While the majority of outraged fans are gathered around the T.V. on Monday nights, chugging beer and hot wings, they were furious that someone kneeled during the anthem when they should have been preparing to entertain the spectators. Let’s be clear; this protest is not about the flag. This protest is not about disrespect. This protest is not about the national anthem. This protest a plea for people to recognize that black Americans are still treated less than in this nation, and because we don’t possess the luxury of denying what’s happening in the world, this protest is an effort to bring about genuine change.

The ideology that racism is nonexistent is but a smoke screen for those who don’t like to be in the fire. In other words, those who are uncomfortable discussing the topic. Kneeling during the national anthem is a start, but it’s not the end. If anything, it ruffles enough feathers to generate conversation among friends on Facebook and in the break room, with the hopes that someone will understand the need for change. After the riots, after the marches, after the protest, after the speeches… what comes next? How do we keep another innocent life from being taken by the hands of those hired to protect it? What can we do to heal as a nation? True reform and change happen with radical activism that does not include being served an ice cold Pepsi amid a riot. 

Combating racism includes reversing years of thinking that has been passed from generation to generation. It vehemently embraces being the epitome of bravery when our fellow Americans are being oppressed and targeted for the color of our skin, gender, religion, or sexual orientation. It comprehends that racism is not foregone. Above all, together, we are far more powerful than we are individually.

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