San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick is exercising his constitutional right to protest. However, during the most recent preseason game against the Green Bay Packers his protest derived national attention.

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick holds the football during warmups before a preseason NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2016, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Protesting, for Kaepernick’s case, is sitting out the National Anthem during the 49ers preseason games. Reported by NBC News, the reason to protest from Kaepernick himself, is  “There are a lot of things that are going on that are unjust and people aren’t being held accountable for and that’s something that needs to change.”

For some this isn’t the best method or way to warrant change. Some feel that Kaepernick should respect the flag. As reported by USA Today, in reaction to Kaepernick, New York Giants Wide Receiver Victor Cruz said “Regardless of how you feel about the things that are going on in America today and the things that are going on across the world with gun violence and things like that, you’ve got to respect the flag and stand up with your teammates.”

Cruz believes that it is more so about comradery instead of pledging allegiance to the United States, however standing at all for Kaepernick seems difficult to do.

“When there is significant change and I feel like this flag represents what it is suppose to represent and this country is representing its people the way that it is suppose to then I’ll stand”, said Kaepernick.

In a statement released by the National Football League in wake of these events, the NFL says players are “encouraged” to stand during the National Anthem but not required. So Kaepernick won’t face any penalty for his actions, in which he said he will continue to do so, but the public backlash may not be so kind.

The outrage on social media and news outlets mostly point to his actions instead of the reasons why he is protesting. Many feel that he is disrespecting veterans in this country.

Kaepernick’s ex-teammate Alex Boone, now a member of the Minnesota Vikings, said “I understand it…but at the same time you should have some respect for people who served, especially people that lost their life to protect our freedom.”

Therefore Kaepernick responded to those who felt he disrespected the military. “I have great respect for the men and women who have fought for this country…I mean people are dying in vain because this country isn’t holding their end of the bargain up as far as -you know- giving freedom and justice and liberty to everybody.

But regardless, Kaepernick has his reasons for opting out of the National Anthem.

“Ultimately it’s to bring awareness and make people realize what’s really going on in this country“ said Kaepernick. “This country stands for freedom, liberty and justice for all and that’s not happening for all right now.”

Click below to see reactions on Twitter: 

Reaction Tweets to Colin Kaepernick Taking A Stand

Reaction Tweets (More Vulgar) to Colin Kaepernick Taking A Stand