The news that Rihanna declined the opportunity to perform during half time at the 2019 Super Bowl in support of Colin Kaepernick again brings attention to the attacks on peaceful protest by the current Republican administration and many of its supporters.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has willingly immersed himself into controversy by refusing to stand for the playing of the national anthem in protest of what he deems are wrongdoings against African Americans and minorities in the United States.
“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” Kaepernick told NFL Media in an exclusive interview after the game. “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.” NFL News 8/27/2016
The current Republican administration and its supporters have demonized Kaepernick specifically, and peaceful protestors in general. In many speeches Mr. Trump has encouraged his supporters to assault protestors and attack reporters. Mr. Trump has suggested that protests should not be allowed. In many states new laws redefine peaceful protest as illegal and have significantly increased penalties for those convicted of protesting.
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