Letter: Do not protest during national anthem

Allen Lazard, as a long time Cyclone fan I was caught off guard by your tweet about #takeaknee. I have always been impressed with your character, at least from afar. You scored major points when you put your team over your possible future NFL career and returned to be part of something great. It is to this character that I direct my plea.

While you have very right to protest that which you disagree with, please do not do it during our national anthem. By kneeling during anthem you will represent yourself in the eyes of many, just as poorly as President Donald Trump did when he lashed out in the way he did.

For many of us the flag and the anthem symbolize so much more than our government and our leaders, they symbolize the sacrifice and loss of our servicemen, women and families. This symbolism is so strong it is difficult to distinguish between a political protest and disrespect of our heroes.

Please demonstrate your character and protest in a way that cannot be missed or mistaken. Honor your convictions while honoring those who helped guarantee them.

Ryan Buitenwerf

Elgin