This past weekend, many NFL athletes took a knee and locked arms with each other in solidarity during the traditional singing of the national anthem during football games. Remaining silent in peaceful protest against the overt racism sewed into the foundation of American culture, and a system built against themselves and the values and wellness of their ancestors, they remained immovable—an inspiration to anyone who does not see eye to eye with a ever more divided America.
This protest incited harsh backlash against the players across all streams of social media and news outlets, having its flames initially fanned on Twitter by President Trump himself, who took to the social media site (despite rising concern with North Korea and the dire Puerto Rico situation) to attack the NFL players in a feverish blitz. He even went so far to say that any professional football player who kneels while the national anthem is being played should be fired for their "disrespect."
Since the weekend, vast support has risen for #TakeAKnee and the NFL participants, with countless celebrities and personalities all over the industry weighing in...
\u201c#TheXFiles #TakeAKnee\u201d— Gillian Anderson (@Gillian Anderson) 1506391225
\u201cIn the spirit of Gene Roddenberry - If I could take one knee on the bridge I would.\n#StarTrekDiscovery\u201d— Jason Isaacs (@Jason Isaacs) 1506274387
\u201cDuring my Broadway show today, the audience joined w/ me and together we stood in solidarity with the NFL players protesting Trump & owners\u201d— Michael Moore (@Michael Moore) 1506289144
\u201cProud to be a part of this cast, who took a knee as our curtain closed today. Thank you to our\u2026 https://t.co/2F9TFdjAKm\u201d— olivia wilde (@olivia wilde) 1506292482
\u201cI toggle btw outrage & fear, and I try to bridge them with action & community. I'm so honored to join in solidarity w/those who #TakeAKnee.\u201d— Tracee Ellis Ross (@Tracee Ellis Ross) 1506449696
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\u201cIt's that easy. #takeaknee\u201d— Uzo Aduba (@Uzo Aduba) 1506261223
