Model and actress Kate Upton has a very strong opinion when it comes to the national anthem and what it represents. We could not have said it better ourselves Ms. Upton.
“Protest all you want and use social media all you want. However, during the nearly two minutes when that song is playing, I believe everyone should put their hands on their heart and be proud of our country for we are all truly blessed.”
Opinions aren’t hard to find when discussing recent NFL protests during the national anthem.
Model and actress Kate Upton offered hers Sunday on social media, causing quite the stir. Upton is engaged to Detroit Tigers pitcher Justin Verlander. Upton’s post had a lengthy caption about her support for veterans. She also posted a photo of Arian Foster, and other Miami Dolphins players, kneeling during the national anthem Sunday before they took on the Seattle Seahawks.
“In my opinion, the national anthem is a symbolic song about our country,” Upton said on the Instagram post. “It represents honoring the many brave men and women who sacrifice and have sacrificed their lives each and every single day to protect our freedom.”
“Sitting or kneeling down during the national anthem is a disgrace to those people who have served and currently serve our country. Sitting down during the national anthem on September 11th is even more horrific. Protest all you want and use social media all you want.”
“However, during the nearly two minutes when that song is playing, I believe everyone should put their hands on their heart and be proud of our country for we are all truly blessed. Recent history has shown that it is a place where anyone no matter what race or gender has the potential to become President of the United States. We live in the most special place in the world and should be thankful. After the song is over, I would encourage everyone to please use the podium they have, stand up for their beliefs, and make America a better place. The rebuilding of battery park and the freedom tower demonstrates that amazing things can be done in this country when we work together towards a common goal. It is a shame how quickly we have forgotten this as a society. Today we are more divided then ever before. I could never imagine multiple people sitting down during the national anthem on the September 11th anniversary. The lessons of 911 should teach us that if we come together, the world can be a better and more peaceful place. #neverforget.”
Upton reposted Verlander’s Instagram post from Sunday. In that post, Verlander wrote: “I choose to stand. Remembering all those who lost their lives 15 years ago on 9/11. Also, the countless who’ve given their lives defending our freedom here at home.” She also reposted a photo from the Seahawks account. In that photo, Richard Sherman, coach Pete Carroll, and other players stand with interlocking arms during the anthem.
“We are a team comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds. And as a team, we have chosen to stand and interlock arms in unity.”- Doug Baldwin Jr,” the Seahawks wrote in the post.
The Dolphins later issued a statement regarding the demonstration.
“We encourage all members of our organization to stand at attention during the national anthem out of respect and appreciation for the freedoms we are afforded as Americans,” the statement said. “We also recognize that it’s an individual’s right to reflect during the anthem in different ways. We respect these liberties and appreciate the sacrifices that everyone has made for our country, especially on this day of remembrance. We hope today’s events will continue a respectful and thoughtful dialogue in our community on unity, inclusiveness and togetherness.”