Three MSU players raise fists in solidarity during the National Anthem
Coach Dantonio stood behind their right to do so
For three of Michigan State’s football players, they were able to show that they not only fight for their team on the field, but for their rights as individuals as well. With fists raised, these Spartans joined the growing number of sportsman protesting the brutalization of people of color by police forces across the country.
MSU safety Kenney Lyke (14), defensive end Gabrielle Sherrod (89), and running back Delton Williams (22) raised their fists in protest during the National Anthem (credit to Mike Mulholland, MLive.com)
On Saturday, September 24, the Michigan State Spartan’s played the Wisconsin Badger’s at Spartan Stadium. As the National Anthem rang through the stadium, three of Michigan State’s players raised their right hands in fists in a show of solidarity. Among those were freshman safety Kenney Lyke, fifth-year graduate transfer Gabrielle Sherrod and senior fullback Delton Williams.
Protesting among athletes was first seen from Colin Kaepernick of the San Fransisco 49ers in relation to the growing police brutality in mid-to-late August. Kaepernick began gathering attention when he was noticed taking a seat during the National Anthem. Since then, Kaepernick has taken a knee during the anthem rather than the bench. His actions have not been for nothing, but have instead gained awareness in and outside of the stadium. “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way,” he said.
From sea to sea, the peaceful protests have taken place during the national anthem at many sporting events. Kaepernick’s actions sparked players to join him in protest, from football teams such as: the New England Patriots, Seattle Seahawks, St.Louis Rams, Miami Dolphins and the Kansas City Chiefs.
What does Michigan State’s Coach, Mark Dantonio, think of the players actions? Dantonio, unlike many others, chose to stand behind the actions of his players with understanding. “Your patriotism, your faith are sort of the same – that’s your choice and it’s influenced by what you’ve experienced in this world.” Dantonio went on further to say that as long as it is done with peace, that it is their right as people of America to do so.
With dignity and respect, Kenney Lyke, Gabrielle Sherrod and Delton Williams joined the growing number of individuals to peacefully fight and acknowledge the police brutality that continues to light the country.
Watch Mark Dantonio’s comments on the players’ actions below.