In the wake of former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s demonstration against police brutality and racial injustice, a movement has emerged adopting his symbolic act of kneeling during the national anthem to spotlight these pressing issues. However, this gesture has sparked controversy among individuals who hold deep reverence for the American flag and military, interpreting it as a sign of disrespect toward the nation. When Monroe High School’s football team followed Kaepernick’s lead and knelt during the national anthem, it elicited a significant reaction from the game’s referees.
Referees Ernie Lunardelli, aged 54, and Anthony Lunardelli, aged 27, were disheartened to witness the players’ choice to kneel during the anthem. For Ernie, it became a matter of principle: he could not simply stand by as what he perceived as a dishonor to the country unfolded before him.
Voicing his frustration, Ernie expressed, “I vehemently oppose anyone showing disrespect to our country, our flag, or our armed forces. The issues they’re protesting have no relevance to the national anthem, and I am steadfastly against it. That’s why I decided to protest their kneeling by taking action.”
Ernie’s dismay stems from his conviction that the anthem serves as a moment to pay homage to the nation and its symbols, rather than a platform for protest. He firmly defends his position, asserting that his protest is aimed at anyone who shows disrespect to the flag or anthem, regardless of their background.
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Monroe High School football players kneel during National Anthem (youtube.com)
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