Bonamego, captains support raising fists during national anthem
Prior to last week's 24-21 victory against Ball State, four Central Michigan football players raised their fists during the playing of the national anthem to raise awareness about racial discrimination.
When asked about the players' silent protest after the team's practice on Wednesday, Head coach John Bonamego said he was unaware of the protest, but talked with his players after learning about it.
"I spoke to them to make sure they were doing it for the right reasons," Bonamego said. "I'm proud we live in a country where people have a right to express their beliefs and communicate them."
The second-year head coach will allow the four players, junior defensive backs Ray Golden and Emmett Thomas, freshman defensive back Marcel Ray and junior linebacker Tyree Wallerto continue raising their fists during the national anthem.
Four Central Michigan football players raise fists during National Anthem
Before last Saturday’s 24-21 win against Ball State, several Central Michigan football players raised their fists during the playing of the national anthem in protest of social injustices around the country.
"As long as it's done in a way that is not disruptive and non-violent, I have no problem with it, that's their right," Bonamego said.
Golden started raising his fist three weeks ago. He said having approval wouldn't have been a factor in his decision.
Senior captains Cooper Rush and Tony Annese expressed support for the players' silent protest, which they will continue throughout the season.
The protest hasn't been a distraction for the team, as many of players were either unaware of it or supportive of their teammates' right to do it.
"Those players want to make a stand in their opinion of what they think is right and support that 100 percent," Annese said.
The Chippewas play Northern Illinois at 3:30 p.m. Saturday in DeKalb.
