Chiefs players lock arms during national anthem, Marcus Peters raises fist
The entire Chiefs team stood and locked arms during the national anthem Sunday.
“It was our goal to be unified as a team and be respectful to everyone’s opinions, and the remembrance of 9/11,” the players said in a statement released by the team. “It’s our job as professional athletes to make a positive impact on our communities and to be proactive when change is needed. Together we are going to continue to have conversations, educate ourselves and others on social issues and work with local law enforcement officials and leaders to make an impact on the Kansas City community.”
#Chiefs linking arms pic.twitter.com/4Xl4UMvc9a
— Terez A. Paylor (@TerezPaylor) September 11, 2016
Cornerback Marcus Peters, who voiced support for Colin Kaepernick earlier in the week, held up a gloved first in a display similar to the 1968 protest of John Carlos and Tommie Smith.
Marcus Peters with raised fist during Anthem. Locked arms by #Chiefs. No one sat or knelt. #USA pic.twitter.com/zfHgrphj6l
— Jeff Rosen (@jeff_rosen88) September 11, 2016
Seahawks receiver Doug Baldwin announced Saturday that his team planned to stand and lock arms during the anthem before their game against the Dolphins later Sunday.