While some NFL players are giving opinions in the media that are making us cringe, others are taking huge steps to stand up for injustice in many forms. For San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, he is choosing not to stand for the singing of the national anthem and acknowledgement of the American flag, in a very public protest.

In an exclusive interview with NFL media, Kaepernick talked about his decision.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”

And while the WNBA tried to fine its players for making a statement, the 49ers respect Kaepernick’s decision, saying, “The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose and participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.”

Kaepernick elaborated for reporters.

#49ers Colin Kaepernick video Part 1 pic.twitter.com/WEPwqBucsh

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 28, 2016

#49ers Colin Kaepernick video Part 2 pic.twitter.com/zQxexPLKba

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 28, 2016

#49ers Colin Kaepernick video Part 3 pic.twitter.com/HG22md3oDW

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 28, 2016

#49ers Colin Kaepernick video Part 4 pic.twitter.com/jCoAQzl38N

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 28, 2016

Colin Kaepernick video Part 5 pic.twitter.com/N7FAf0Fsj2

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 28, 2016

Of course, white tears are in abundance.

This guy is a joke. Get lost. You don’t like it in a country that has given you opportunity to succeed? Then get out https://t.co/Dwssw2I1zA

— AUBREY HUFF (@aubrey_huff) August 27, 2016

Does Colin Kaepernick realize the country he is protesting for racism has elected an African-American president? (OK, his mother was white)

— Just Jake (@JakeNotatStFarm) August 27, 2016

Lost every ounce of respect for @Kaepernick7 sitting down in the national anthem? You’re a joke man. #RespectTheFlag🇺🇸

— Gales™ (@bradygales9) August 27, 2016

But others have his back.

White people tears about Colin Kaepernick taste like sweet nectar and I’m here for it.

— #BlackAugust (@BlackAutonomist) August 27, 2016

Y’all, “folks” are UPSET with Colin Kapernick right now. That’s how you know you’re doing the right thing.

— Queen Mikasa. (@ohyesitsTK) August 27, 2016

The Americans angry with Colin Kapernick are the people that make that country look like a joke to the rest of the world.

— Gavin Somers (@gaviiins) August 27, 2016

Fortunately, the quarterback isn’t worried about any of it. He said, “This is not something that I am going to run by anybody. I am not looking for approval. I have to stand up for people that are oppressed. If they take football away, my endorsements from me, I know that I stood up for what is right.” He also said that he wanted to go public about his feelings on the matter for a while but wanted to “understand the situation better.”

What do you think of Kaepernick’s protest? Do you agree? What are other things you think athletes can do to fight injustice? Sound off in the comments!

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