2016+National+Anthem

="Anthem Uproar"- The Controversy over the National Anthem at Sporting Events=

Recently, following the lead of Pro-Football player Colin Kaepernick, a number of professional, collegiate, and amateur athletes have chosen to kneel, or sit- rather than stand for the singing or playing of the National Anthem prior to sporting events. Their argument is that at this time, they do not believe that the country is living up to the ideals expressed in the anthem. Many support them- as no one is required to stand for the National Anthem in the United States. Others are angry because they see their not standing as an act of disrespect towards their country- and to those who have served the nation in protecting and expanding its freedoms.

This controversy is nicely explored in the current issue of Junior Scholastic that is linked in the menu. The article may be found on pages 6 and 7 in the October 10 issue of Junior Scholastic. Additionally, this edition features a related political cartoon on page 24. Please read the article and examine the political cartoon, and respond to the following question.

Here is a link to another article on the topic from Newsela

Pro / Con- O'er the Ramparts We Watched as the Athletes Were Kneeling

What do you think about this controversy?

You might also consider the following:

Playing or singing the National Anthem at sporting events is an American tradition at all levels of competition. In some instances, the Pledge of Allegiance is recited to begin school and public meetings. What do you think about this tradition?