Margot Tortolani

Trump Urges Fans to Boycott NFL

Throughout the past few days, Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized the NFL and its players. Many players have been taking a knee during the national anthem to protest police brutality that is discriminatory towards African Americans. Trump is urging the public to boycott the NFL, and for teams to fire those who are protesting. He has posted a series of tweets pertaining to the subject. Trump stated, “If NFL fans refuse to go to games until players stop disrespecting our Flag & Country, you will see change take place fast. Fire or suspend!” Many teams and players have come together to protest as well. They have united and are sticking up for one another. Stephen Ross, owner of the Dolphins said,  "They wanted to start a conversation and are making a difference in our community, including working with law enforcement to bring people together. We all can benefit from learning, listening and respecting each other."

It’s important when figures in spotlight, such as football players, take a stand to bring awareness to the issues we face. They have the power to influence generations old and young. It’s unfair and unconstitutional of Trump to ask for the players to be suspended or fired. Trump even said, "Wouldn't you love to see one of these NFL owners, when somebody disrespects our flag, to say 'get that son of a b ---- off the field right now? Out! He's fired! He's fired.” It’s as basic as our first amendment, you learn this from the time you’re a child. We as Americans have the right to free speech, the right to protest the problems aggravating our nation. They shouldn’t be fired simply for exercising their rights. That’s what is so beautiful about America. We are allowed to bring awareness, and it’s important that we do. I do however agree with the above statement from Dolphins owner Stephen Ross. Respect is a two way street as is listening. This is something we really lose sight of, and I’m so glad Ross said this. “We all can benefit from learning, listening and respecting each other." This quote struck me. We so often just have a yelling match of whose voice is loudest, when really we’re only ever going to get somewhere if we listen to each other. We have the right to protest, as long as it’s peaceful and respectful. We’re all different, but respect, listening, and compassion can go a long way in solving issues. We need to hear both sides to make a step forward.


http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2017/09/24/trump-urges-fans-to-boycott-nfl-in-ongoing-criticism-flag-kneeling-players.html