2016 U.S. national anthem protests.

About 2016 U.S. national anthem protests

Beginning in August 2016, some American athletes, most of whom are African Americans, have protested against systemic racism in the United States by kneeling on one knee while the U.S. national anthem is played. Beginning in 2017, many players also protested against President Donald Trump's criticisms of those involved in the protest, and some against Trump's policies during his first term in office. Some observers have praised the players' social awareness. The act itself has become widely referred to as "taking the knee" or "taking a knee". Backlash to athletes kneeling often includes heavy criticism of the athletes for being unpatriotic; internet backlash against the players has raised questions over their right to freedom of speech.