Nationalism Controversy occurred when San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick protested the national anthem by taking a knee instead of standing during a football game. His reasons included the belief that minorities are not being treated equally and wants people to come together and unite. Some think what he did was very patriotic and a great way to express his First Amendment rights. “I agree that he has the right to do what he’s doing, and it’s bringing up issues that need to be discussed,” said Junior Marcos Lopez. Others believe he is being very unpatriotic and not showing his appreciation for America. Dissenters also think that he is showing major disrespect to men and women in uniform that gave their lives for our rights and safety. Junior Elijah Walton said, “I think it’s important and disrespectful to men and women in uniform not to stand.” Either way, this conversation is important to everyone, even Senior High, because it brings up very debatable topics that must be discussed. In my opinion, Kaepernick is not uniting us, he’s dividing us. As a public figure, he needs to set an example to the viewers. “He should have stood. It’s the right thing to do.” Sophomore Trevor Murphy added. It’s the right thing to do because it’s respectful, and shows that he truly cares about this country. There are so many better ways he could have handled this, such as giving to charity or talking on his own time. He should not have brought politics into football. People watch football to relax and focus on a fun game, not to hear more politics. If he really is concerned about racism in America, he needs to help by bringing people together and dedicating his time in a non-offensive way, instead of disrespecting the country and everyone who lost their lives to give us rights, just for some national attention.