Last Sunday, four Miami Dolphins players, running back Arian Foster, linebacker Jelani Jenkins, wide receiver Kenny Stills, and safety Michael Thomas, took a knee during the National Anthem, joining a growing demonstration around the NFL and all sports. Started by San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, the move is designed to bring attention to the “oppression of black people and people of color,” according to Kaepernick’s explanation. The move is not without controversy, however, as fans have taken to Twitter and message boards to both support and criticize the players.
Many took umbrage with the fact that Sunday was September 11, the 15th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States, and a day they felt should be about unity.