This week we asked readers their thoughts on the NFL’s new policy of issuing fines to players who publicly kneel in protest during the singing of the National Anthem.

It’s the American anthem and any NFL, NBA or players of any sport should have the right to kneel. I don’t think it’s fair that they’re now penalized and all they are doing is respecting ordinary people–us. I think President [Donald] Trump is partially responsible for taking away their right of free speech. I am a football fan, I’ll probably still watch, but not be into it as much as I was because it’s not the same now.
Essence Smith
West Farms Square

Personally, I have family members who have served in the military and I think that they themselves feel that it shouldn’t be a policy when it comes to sports. I think it’s completely different. I don’t think sports should be associated with something that’s associated with racial inequalities and people not being treated equally. There shouldn’t be a rule on whether they can or cannot; they should be able to express themselves. And by not wanting to honor that flag, because it’s against their beliefs, then its a violation of their own civil rights and they should be allowed to express themselves.
Meria Franqui
Bedford Park

It’s ridiculous, Trump needs to stop it. It makes no sense at all. I think he likes many things that just aren’t right. This all needs to be dropped and they should just let them kneel. What does that have to do against him? How’s it harming him? Its petty.
Angel Colon
Bedford Park

 

Unbelievable. I’m not in favor of this. Why? They have every right to do this, they pay their taxes. It’s their right as Americans. They have every right to their freedom of speech. It’s a very complicated issue.
Luis Nuñez
Norwood

 

I definitely disagree. It definitely goes against the First Amendment and I think it’s kind of ridiculous to me. It’s peaceful protesting and they’re not hurting anybody. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that. It’s a protest that’s relevant today, when it comes to everything that’s going on.
Bridgette Nuñez
Kingsbridge