The act of kneeling during the United States national anthem at National Football League (NFL) games is a form of protest. This action typically involves a player lowering one or both knees to the ground while the “Star-Spangled Banner” is played before a game. An example of this occurred frequently during the 2016-2020 NFL seasons.
The significance of this demonstration lies in its association with broader societal issues, particularly racial injustice and police brutality against African Americans. Proponents view the practice as a way to raise awareness and advocate for change, emphasizing freedom of speech and the right to protest peacefully. The historical context of the action can be traced to the Civil Rights Movement, where kneeling was used as a symbol of resistance and solidarity. This resonates with current efforts to address systemic inequalities.
