SAN FRANCISCO 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has willingly immersed himself into controversy by refusing to stand for the playing of the national anthem in protest of what he deems are wrongdoings against African Americans and minorities in the United States.

    His latest refusal to stand for the anthem came before the 49ers’ preseason loss to Green Bay at Levi’s Stadium in a NFL (National Football League) match Friday night.

    “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color,” Kaepernick told NFL Media. “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.”

    By taking a stand for civil rights, Kaepernick, 28, joins other athletes, like the NBA’s Dwyane Wade, Chris Paul, LeBron James and Carmelo Anthony in using their platform and status to raise awareness to issues affecting minorities in the U.S.

    (SD-Agencies)