The NFL will have another prominent player join in on silent protesting. Seattle Seahawks Defensive End Michael Bennett has confirmed he will be sitting down during the National Anthem for the rest of the season.
In an effort to bring attention to racism and intolerance, the Pro Bowl player confirmed he will be sitting during the singing of the National Anthem for all 16 games of the Seahawks 2017-2018 schedule.
“I hope that I can activate everybody to get off their hands and feet and go out into the communities and push helping each other. Sit down with somebody that’s the opposite sex, sit down with somebody that’s the opposite race, different religion and understand that people are different and go out and join the community and try to change the society, change what you’re a part of. If you don’t like it, keep changing it” he explained to reporters a after last week’s preseason game.
Bennett acknowledged that the recent racial violence in Charlottesville, VA has inspired his recent political stance.
“Charlottesville had a lot to do with it but I think it’s just the journey of who I am as a person. I think everybody has a time where they feel like they need to be who they are and stand up for what they believe in.”
While his intentions come from a place of creating unity he understands the scrutiny that is sure to follow. “Of course I’m going to face backlash. This is bigger than me. This is bigger than football. This is about bringing opportunities to people, giving people equality. This is bigger than a sport” Michael confirmed.
Bennet joins Colin Kaepernick and most recently Marshawn Lynch in sitting during the National Anthem.
Via NFL.com
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Photo: Getty
