Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker is urging the NFL and its players to end their protests during the national anthem and instead use their platform to speak out against domestic violence.
“My request is simple: Stand for the American flag and the national anthem out of respect for those who risk their lives for our freedoms, and then take a stand against domestic violence to keep American families safe,” Walker, a Republican, said in a letter Monday to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFL Players Association Executive Director DeMaurice Smith.
“That’s something we can all agree on, and that just might help the NFL reunite with many of its devoted fans.”
Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem last year to protest police brutality and racial injustice. President Trump brought the issue of national anthem protests back into the spotlight last month when he said NFL team owners should fire any player who refuses to stand during the national anthem.
The president also called on the NFL to enact a rule prohibiting players from kneeling when “The Star-Spangled Banner” plays.
NFL team owners are expected to discuss players taking a knee during the national anthem at this week’s NFL Fall League Meeting in New York City, which starts Tuesday.
With October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, coupled with this week’s NFL Fall League Meeting, Walker said the timing is appropriate for the league to “strongly condemn domestic violence and lead the charge in supporting safe families across America.”
“It is time for players in the NFL to stop their protests during the anthem and move on from what has become a divisive political sideshow,” Walker said. “Instead, I encourage them to use their voices and influence to take a stand against domestic violence.”
