Opinion articles provide independent perspectives on key community issues, separate from our newsroom reporting.

Letters to the Editor

Kneeling a stunt, not a stance

New Orleans Saints players knelt to protest racial injustices before the U.S. anthem was played for an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Wembley Stadium in London on Oct. 1.
New Orleans Saints players knelt to protest racial injustices before the U.S. anthem was played for an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Wembley Stadium in London on Oct. 1. Matt Dunham Associated Press

Patriotism is described as love for or devotion to one’s country, and ideology is the integrated assertions, theories and aims that constitute a sociopolitical program. I dare say that kneeling in protest is unpatriotic at its core. Stating that it is not disrespectful to veterans is offensive.

Myself and millions of other veterans served, thousands died and thousands permanently carry the wounds from defending this country and providing citizens the rights which they enjoy. There are many things that occur in this nation with which I do not agree; yet I stand for the anthem and the passing of the flag because I can love this country and support it, all while attempting to impart change on those parts of society where I have influence.

Silently protesting an ideology without further action and dialogue is more a stunt than a stance. If people do not like the path that their society is taking, get involved and change the path.

Rick Brannam

Lexington

This story was originally published January 25, 2018 at 7:43 PM with the headline "Kneeling a stunt, not a stance."

Get one year of unlimited digital access for $159.99
#ReadLocal

Only 44¢ per day

SUBSCRIBE NOW