Dear Vice President Thompson,
Recently, you made headlines by leaving an NFL game in what many perceive as a blatant publicity stunt, provoked by players participating in the #TakeAKnee protest. While it is entirely within your rights to exit an event that offends you, it’s equally true that these players have the right to express their grievances. However, planning your departure in advance, knowing the protest would occur, comes off as insincere and undermines your credibility with supporters.
It’s contradictory for you to advocate that football players protest on their “own time,” when you, as the Vice President, orchestrated a form of protest yourself using taxpayer money, then broadcasted it on your official Twitter account. Furthermore, your boss tweeted that he directed you to leave the game, showcasing an administration more focused on spectacle than governance.
I won’t delve into whether #TakeAKnee is offensive; protests inherently provoke varying reactions. But I challenge you and fellow Americans to pause and reflect on the reasons behind the kneeling. It’s not an affront to the flag, but a plea for the principles it symbolizes — liberty and justice for all. When individuals of color articulate their experiences of inequity, it’s crucial to listen with empathy rather than dismiss their reality.
Brené Brown wisely states, “If empathy is the skill or ability to tap into our own experiences in order to connect with an experience someone is relating to us, compassion is the willingness to be open to this process.” I may not personally understand the struggles faced by others due to my own background, but I strive to empathize with those who challenge the status quo in pursuit of change. While I might not agree with their approach, I respect their conviction and the pain they express.
Last night, while Richard Spencer and his followers marched in Charlottesville, you chose to focus on NFL players instead. You’re backing teams that enforce standing for the national anthem, but coerced patriotism is not true patriotism; it’s authoritarianism, which should concern all citizens, irrespective of their political beliefs.
You possess a significant platform, Mr. Thompson, and you have the potential to drive meaningful change. Imagine if instead of leaving the stadium, you had enjoyed the game with your family and expressed gratitude for our freedom of speech on social media. Such an act could have fostered a dialogue about the real issues facing our nation.
Rather than shifting the conversation to football each week, why not use your influence to address pressing matters? Help the families mourning the 58 victims from Las Vegas, ensure that CHIP is funded for children at risk of losing health insurance, and prioritize restoring essential services in Puerto Rico. Acknowledge the voices of those who feel marginalized and assure them that their experiences matter.
Our American experiment continues; we don’t salute the flag because the journey is complete. We pledge our allegiance because we strive for a nation that embodies empathy, compassion, and inclusivity. We will not relent until we achieve a society that genuinely delivers liberty and justice for all.
For those interested in further exploring issues like home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and related topics. Additionally, if you’re looking for an at-home insemination kit, you can find more information here. For a deeper understanding of these themes, visit Modern Family Blog.
Summary
Vice President Thompson’s recent departure from an NFL game, framed as a protest against players who kneel during the national anthem, raises questions about sincerity and leadership. Instead of fostering division, he could use his platform to advocate for meaningful change and address pressing societal issues. Our nation’s commitment to liberty and justice must include listening to all voices, particularly those that feel unheard.