NFL rejects veterans’ print ad urging people to stand for anthem

It’s the latest chapter on a firestorm year for the NFL and the National Anthem protest: the NFL has rejected a Super Bowl program advertisement from a pro-veterans advocacy organization urging all Americans to stand for the National Anthem.

According to ABC News, the NFL said they did not accept the ad because it makes a "political statement."

The print advertisement was meant to be full-page, containing the hashtag “#PleaseStand.”  The ad, with the picture of a color guard holding the American flag, also included a call to donate $20 to AMVETs, which is a veterans service organization recognized by U.S. Congress.

In a letter sent to NFL Commissioner Roger Goddell on Monday, AMVETS National Commander Marion Polk wrote that "freedom of speech works both ways."  He goes on to say, "We respect the rights of those who choose to protest, but imposing corporate censorship to deny those same rights to those veterans who have secured it for all is reprehensible."

Here is the rejected ad:

(Tweet)

Meanwhile, if any kneeling during the National Anthem happens during the Super Bowl, the audience may see it.  NBC executive Fred Gaudelli has stated the network does not play to shy away from showing protests during the game.