Jade: Mr. Kaepernick and the other players around the NFL are now "taking a knee" during the Anthem.  It is a "personal" act, but as with almost all protests is done in a public forum to bring attention to the "cause" involved.  His protest has been quite effective and the protest has garnered increasing support from other players.  Additionally, his actions have encouraged a wider discussion of both the "cause"....the treatment of blacks in our society, especially the treatment by police; and, as a byproduct, the discussion of Freedom of Expression guaranteed by our Constitution.  Both discussions are important.

The threatened violence against Mr. Kaepernick and his family represent, IMO, a far greater threat to the values I cherish than does his protest.  I'd be interested to read the counter-argument if anyone would care to present it.   regards, Gary