@KarenGrossEdu Dr. Mike Robinson: The New NFL Policy Requires Players To Either Stand For The National Anthem Or Stay In The Locker Room. What Are Your Thoughts on the NFL’s National Anthem policy?
Karen Gross, Esq.: Memorial Day is a good time to reflect on the NFL policy that prevents kneeling on the field during the National Anthem. Many military have fought for and lost their lives for our freedoms, including the freedom to speak. Kneeling is non-violent protest, which adds to its power.
When you are a national example for children everywhere as NFL players are (for better or worse), you do not have to park your voice and rights at the door. NFL players kneeling is not a disgrace; it is an expression of our need for equality and fundamental fairness in America -- something that is sorely lacking. What better spokespeople for that position? When we give up our right to speak, we give up our freedom. This Memorial Day, many military support the players and kneeling. They know what they are fighting for; would that the owners had similar values and beliefs and respected a fundamental freedom. Kneeling is, in a sense, standing for our most important right: the freedom to speak without being censured.
Karen Gross is the former President, Southern Vermont College; Former Senior Policy Advisor, US Dept. of Education; Former Law Professor; Author; Commentator
Karen Gross, Esq.: Memorial Day is a good time to reflect on the NFL policy that prevents kneeling on the field during the National Anthem. Many military have fought for and lost their lives for our freedoms, including the freedom to speak. Kneeling is non-violent protest, which adds to its power.
When you are a national example for children everywhere as NFL players are (for better or worse), you do not have to park your voice and rights at the door. NFL players kneeling is not a disgrace; it is an expression of our need for equality and fundamental fairness in America -- something that is sorely lacking. What better spokespeople for that position? When we give up our right to speak, we give up our freedom. This Memorial Day, many military support the players and kneeling. They know what they are fighting for; would that the owners had similar values and beliefs and respected a fundamental freedom. Kneeling is, in a sense, standing for our most important right: the freedom to speak without being censured.
Karen Gross is the former President, Southern Vermont College; Former Senior Policy Advisor, US Dept. of Education; Former Law Professor; Author; Commentator