It guarantees both the right to express your views in public and religious freedom. The amendment can be broken up into two major parts. The first portion of the amendment focuses on religious freedom protecting people from having a set of religious beliefs imposed by the government on them. Furthermore, it protects people from having their own religious beliefs restricted by government authorities. The establishment clause is known as the first of these two freedoms. This clause prohibits Congress from creating or promoting a state-sponsored religion for its people. In broader terms the clause has forbidden the creation of a “Church of Ohio” or “Church of the United States but also forbids the government from favoring religion over non-religion or one set of religious beliefs over others. The guarantee given to citizens that they have a right to practice whatever religion they please is a protection against government action. Thus, making it a civil liberty. In contrast, the free …show more content…
This conversation has been a frequently talked about topic because of the actions of the NFL quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, Colin Keapernick. In refusing to stand for the playing of the national anthem in protest of what he deems are wrongdoings against African Americans and minorities in the United States. This high profile quarterback has taken matters in to his own hands and used this platform to voice his opinions and open the eyes of the citizens regarding the U.S. government and its unfairness. In a statement issued to NFL Media in an after game interview, Kaepernick said, “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color.” “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.” No later than on September 1, 2016, Colin Keapernick took a knee during the pledge of allegiance in a televised NFL game against the Green Bay Packers. This event has caused many exchanges in thoughts and opinions from the media mass, public and many fans. After Thursday 's game, Keapernick spoke up in an interview to the media about his reasons for not taking part in the pledge of allegiance. The reasons Keapernick gave the media for his kneeling was, 1. The oppression of people of colors 2