This is going to scandalize some football fans, but I will have to admit that I have never, once, watched an entire football game from beginning to end. Not even when I was in high school or college. It may sound unbelievable, but it was never my thing, and it became even less appealing to me when we started hearing about all the dangerous concussions that damage the brains of football players.
When I attend my entertainment venues of choice —theater, movies, or concerts– I don’t expect to see the entire orchestra or cast come out before the show and put their hands on their hearts while listening to the national anthem. It would seem absurd to mix politics with entertainment. And, in defense or those players who chose to kneel—I can’t say I blame them for taking advantage of this unique opportunity to express their support for their less fortunate brother, uncles, cousins, and fathers.My opinion will not affect attendance at the football games whatsoever, because my husband and I will never attend one in person. He may watch a few games on television, but it won’t matter whether the players stand or kneel. Would I refuse to watch a play or movie starring George Clooney or Clint Eastwood just because I disagree with their political viewpoints? No way! Why would we expect an entire team to have the same political opinions? You can go into any workplace or neighborhood, and you will seldom find everyone in agreement about Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton.
So, I would suggest that we discontinue playing the national anthem at football games. After all, it’s just a game, not a political rally.
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