Urges NFL Players to Create Positive Change

I was shocked and dismayed by the recent actions of San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, Denver Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall, and others refusing to stand during the national anthem. I was especially disturbed by Miami Dolphins players who kneeled during the anthem on the anniversary of Sept. 11, a day to remember the thousands of people who tragically lost their lives on that dreadful day.
It is certainly their right as Americans, but I personally think that rather than creating positive change, this kind of conduct – refusing to honor the national anthem and the American flag – divides us. The sacrifices made by our military members gave these NFL players the freedom to pursue their dreams and fulfill their athletic talents. To this day, members of the Armed Forces are still actively stationed overseas, in dangerous areas and fighting enemies, and to not stand and honor them and our flag during the national anthem is an outright show of disrespect. It also sends a bad message to fans, many of whom are children, to veterans, their families and to the country.
Why not get involved in the issues and be a high-profile voice for change in the community? Meet with community leaders, elected representatives, law enforcement and social justice groups. Mentor kids and work to open Boys and Girls Clubs that will provide a recreational and educational resource for young people.
We live in a great country and all of us have to work together to bridge the divide in this nation and to create a better environment for our children to grow up in and for future generations. That is not going to be accomplished through empty demonstrations broadcast on national television. After Sept. 11, we saw this nation come together like no other time in our history. That is the United States that I know and love. 
Again, I recognize that refusing to stand is the right of these players – but they also have a right to do something about the issues that are dividing communities, and it doesn’t involve them staying seated.
As professional athletes who have been granted so many gifts and done so well in this country, they should be dedicating their energy to more productive and positive causes – particularly since they have the resources at their disposal to be a part of the solution.
ED. Note: Sen. Jeff Van Drew (D-1st) represents the 1st Legislative District, which includes Cape May, Cumberland and Atlantic counties. He is chairman of the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee and Vice Chair of the Senate Military and Veterans’ Affairs Committee.