NFL Players Are Not ‘Oppressed’

To the Editor: 
I have written to Roger Goodell, commissioner of the National Football League, regarding the increased demonstration by the seemingly uneducated and “oppressed” in the NFL followed by the raised fist during the national anthem.
My ire and disgust was manifested when I accessed the NFLPA website and the header to the NFLPA stated, “Years of Courage, Sacrifice and Vision.” Impressive that the players and the organization selected that meaningful self-aggrandizement, yet the very individuals who earned those accolades are being disrespected by someone playing a game.
Sacrifice? They earn millions for a maximum of 16 weeks and approximately “play” two hours and go home in one piece. 
Oppressed? I suggest they check the men standing beside them. I see many minorities and the majority is not disrespecting the anthem. I say those players have limited visions opposite of what the United States provided them. 
It is my understanding that Colin Kaepernick “perceives” that minorities are being punished unjustifiably. The raised fist returning the ‘Black Power’ mantra illustrates the ignorance of some of those playing sports. Are these “oppressed” denied education, job opportunities, housing and food assistance, healthcare, and of course free cell phones to name a few benefits? 
If these “oppressed” are qualified to play competitive sports, they are signed to a contract. When their career ends many go to broadcasting opportunities, coaching or team management.
If Kaepernick and his ilk perceive that police unjustifiably target minorities I suggest they spend several weekends walking around Chicago (Chi-Raq) where 11 of the 550 homicides this year were by police. These NFL players are willing to demean the values of the true sacrifices of the courageous with the vision of a greater America. I challenge they spend a few weekends or days appealing to those oppressed in person!
While Goodell considers fining those who “violated” the NFL uniform code by memorializing Sept. 11 (now there is managerial leadership) all the while the NFL showboats their patriotism. Every Super Bowl halftime, and many local halftimes, have “military participation.” Is the NFL displaying patriotism or a marketing strategy? Based on recent events, I’d say marketing.