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Kate Upton Calls out Miami Dolphins Over National Anthem Protest

On Sunday September 11, 2016 – the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks – the Miami Dolphins […]

On Sunday September 11, 2016 – the 15th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks – the Miami Dolphins played the Seattle Seahawks. But before the game even started, four Miami Dolphins players, caused an uproar in the form of peaceful protest. Since then, Sports Illustrated model, Kate Upton, called them out for their actions.

While the national anthem played across the stadium, running back Arian Foster, outside linebacker Jelani Jenkins, free safety Michael Thomas and wide receiver Kenny Stills, got down on one knee, instead of standing. Only two of the four of them put their hands over their hearts, per the traditional stance.

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In my opinion, the national anthem is a symbolic song about our country. It represents honoring the many brave men and women who sacrifice and have sacrificed their lives each and every single day to protect our freedom. Sitting or kneeling down during the national anthem is a disgrace to those people who have served and currently serve our country. Sitting down during the national anthem on September 11th is even more horrific. Protest all you want and use social media all you want. However, during the nearly two minutes when that song is playing, I believe everyone should put their hands on their heart and be proud of our country for we are all truly blessed. Recent history has shown that it is a place where anyone no matter what race or gender has the potential to become President of the United States. We live in the most special place in the world and should be thankful. After the song is over, I would encourage everyone to please use the podium they have, stand up for their beliefs, and make America a better place. The rebuilding of battery park and the freedom tower demonstrates that amazing things can be done in this country when we work together towards a common goal. It is a shame how quickly we have forgotten this as a society. Today we are more divided then ever before. I could never imagine multiple people sitting down during the national anthem on the September 11th anniversary. The lessons of 911 should teach us that if we come together, the world can be a better and more peaceful place #neverforget.

A photo posted by Kate Upton (@kateupton) on

“This is unacceptable. You should be proud to be an American,” Upton tweeted about the protest. “Especially on 9/11 when we should support each other.”

This is just one of many protests that have been going on in the sports world since San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick made a statement by sitting through the National Anthem. He did this in protest against social injustice, and many athletes who have since joined him to the disdain of many onlookers.

“Protest&speak ur mind whenever u want but during the 120secs you should support the people who protect our freedom,” Upton continued on twitter.

Upton, like many others, believe that what these athletes are doing is disrespectful to America and the troops that have fought for our country. Upton’s comments hold even more weight given that this particular protest happened on the anniversary of 9/11.

The model also took to Instagram to explain herself. She said that she “could never imagine multiple people sitting down during the national anthem on September 11th anniversary,” and that the “lessons of 911 should teach us that if we come together, the world can be a better and more peaceful place.”

[H/T Huffington Post]