Athletes vs. anthem

Regarding the recent uproar over athletes and the American flag and national anthem, the following should be noted.

Pro athletes are well-paid entertainers, coddled by a system since their teen years (not sure about their high school or college education) primarily based on their physical prowess. As such, we expect a great performance on the field without being forced to experience their political, social, or religious opinions. The same can be said for other affluent recording and movie stars. Fortunately, we have options to avoid a performance, turn off the TV (and hopefully affect ratings/ad revenue) or boo the performer.

In the current situation, the athletes’ disrespect is an insult to soldiers who fought for, or immigrants who came to, this country. Furthermore, their antipathy toward law enforcement is a further disconnect given the number of minority cops, police chiefs, mayors, and city attorneys. Racial polarization is, regrettably, being enhanced by these athletes, entertainers, and the media such as ESPN.

Give America your solutions and not your myopic protestations, and you can start with soaring murder rates in Chicago or race riots in towns with alleged police issues.

Joseph Harari

Spokane