Oakland Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan during
a council meeting two years ago.

OAKLAND CITY COUNCIL |
49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat during the national anthem three weeks ago. The act of defiance to protest the treatment of African Americans in this country sparked a national discussion. Last weekend, television cameras scanned the sidelines in search for football players following Kapernick’s lead.

Oakalnd Councilmember said this week in a press release that she stands in solidarity with Kaepernick, at least, rhetorically.

“I believe we must stand up for non-violent protests, including the right to sit down or sit-in. Colin Kaepernick’s choice to sit down is his right and is his statement in fighting against racism and injustice,” said Kaplan.

“We also see again how important this right is, as Native American protesters were violently attacked while seeking to defend their land and water from destruction by a proposed pipeline. From Rosa Parks to members of Congress fighting for a vote on gun safety legislation, sitting down has been, and can be, a powerful way to make a statement and work for justice.”

However, when her office was asked if Kaplan will participate in any similar acts of protest, for instance, sitting while the Pledge of Allegiance is recited at the beginning of every Oakland City Council meeting, her office did not respond, despite the question being prefaced with the phrase, “serious question.”