Kneeling during the National Anthem is a form of protest that gained significant attention in the United States, particularly in 2016. It was popularized by Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL quarterback, who knelt to draw attention to issues of racial inequality and police brutality. This act sparked widespread discussion about the intersection of sports, politics, and social justice. The gesture has been both supported and criticized, with some viewing it as a respectful way to honor the struggles of marginalized communities, while others see it as disrespectful to the flag and the military. The debate continues to influence conversations around patriotism and activism in sports.