The negative public response to Colin Kaepernick taking a knee can be explained through America's passive sense of civil religion. However, his act should not be shoved aside as disrespectful, but as an act of 'tough love' patriotism.
Sports stars have an actual influence on the public sphere. They should dare to step up and raise their voices more often. Basketball player LeBron James' shows the way by criticizing Trump and supporting Black Lives Matter.
