Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sparked national debate and divided opinion when he initiated the practice of kneeling during the national anthem as a nonviolent protest against police brutality. People from all walks of life have either supported or opposed the movement, and a recent high school football game in Monroe provided a unique perspective on the topic.
Before the game, the Monroe High School football team mimicked Kaepernick by kneeling during the playing of the national anthem.
However, the creators of the game took revenge with another grievance. Anthony Lunardelli, 27, and Ernie Lunardelli, 54, two football officials, responded by walking off the field. They concluded that they could no longer tolerate high school students’ “disrespect” for the US.
This anecdote serves as an example of the complexity of anthem protests. People who support kneeling protesters like Colin Kaepernick and the Monroe football players fall into one of two categories.
They want to use the huge fame and popularity of the song – the national anthem – to bring attention to issues they feel are important.
There may be Lunardellis-like individuals in the enemy squad. He believes that the flag and national anthem represent the aspirations, goals, and sacrifices of the American people. Ernie expressed this sentiment to NJ.com when he said, “I’m not advocating for anyone to disrespect our country, our flag, or our armed forces.”
While he is aware that everyone has the right to protest, he was moved by the event and stated that he thinks the pre-game ritual should only be about football and patriotism.
Ernie also added, “Whoever disrespects the flag and the national anthem, I have a problem with that.” His remarks represent the views of many Americans who believe it is rude to demonstrate while the national anthem is being played.
But the occurrence at Monroe High School and the ensuing national debate also raises the following questions: Do symbols like logos and anthems have more meanings? Is it possible for each party to try to act honestly in its own way?
The Lunardellis’ decision to leave the military has far-reaching consequences. According to Ernie, “this game shouldn’t count right now because they didn’t have the right personnel on the field.” in an attempt to challenge the match’s legitimacy.
The two cadets who took their place were, in his opinion, not properly vetted or cleared, which would compromise the integrity of the game.
Another indication that the protest and counter-protest may have effects that extend beyond the football field is the fact that Ernie has sought legal representation.
The football game between Monroe High School and other schools can be seen as a microcosm of the larger debate surrounding the national anthem protests in the United States.
While initially associated with direct protest against police brutality, kneeling during the national anthem has evolved and gained significance as different communities have either embraced or rejected the act. At the heart of this debate is the conflict between respecting national symbols and enforcing the right to freedom of expression. The incident at Monroe High School is an example of how a protest can be interpreted in many ways due to the different perspectives of those who witness it.
It is critical that all stakeholders develop the ability to understand the issues and emotions that shape their views, engage in constructive dialogue, and work together to build a more harmonious society as the conversation progresses. The ongoing debate over anthem protests is a reflection of the complex and multifaceted nature of public discourse in the United States.