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What you should know about #TakeAKnee

You've probably heard some talk about the #TakeAKnee protest that took place over the weekend, but if you're not completely sure what's going on, here's the rundown.

Early last year, quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Colin Kaepernick, started a movement by taking a knee during the national anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality. Kaepernick said that he would not show pride for the flag that represents a country where people of color have been oppressed. Since then, many other players have sided with Kaepernick and decided to kneel alongside him.

On Sunday, some NFL players from various teams stood up for the movement by kneeling down with Kaepernick. This was in response to President Donald Trump's tweets that criticized NFL players that decided to kneel or stay in the locker room during the national anthem. He even criticized the NFL, saying they should fire members that participated in the protests because they were not respecting the flag.

With recent events unfolding, President Trump's tweets sparked much controversy, which resulted in the protests. NFL teams such as the New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland BrownsDenver Broncos and Miami Dolphins all kneeled, and some even locked arms during the anthem as a sign of unity. The Seattle Seahawks, Tennessee Titans and all but one member of the Pittsburgh Steelers didn't even take the field during the anthem.

Though there are many #TakeAKnee supporters, there are just as many who are not happy with these protests and have stood up to express their pride for the flag. They've also stated that they believe it's unpatriotic to protest because, in their opinion, it disrespects those who have served in the military. This resulted in a number of celebrities, NFL teams and even war veterans using the hashtag #BoycottNFL to express their disapproval of the protests and the protesters.

Supporters of #TakeAKnee have been very vocal about their beliefs as well and why they choose to kneel with the protesters. Supporters agree that something needs to be done to address racial inequality in the U.S. or advocating for the right to free speech.

Here's what a few celebs and public figures—from both sides—had to say on Twitter: 

What do you think of the protesters taking a knee? Let us know in the comments.  

Photo credit: NY Mag

by Paige Sheffield | 9/26/2017
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