As promised, the Seahawks will engage in a "demonstration of unity" prior to their season opener against the Dolphins during Sunday’s pregame ceremony.
In a video shared across social media on Saturday, wide receiver Doug Baldwin said the players will stand together with their arms interlocked for the national anthem on the 15th anniversary of 9/11. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the players will assemble, alternating black and white players, along the line. They discussed kneeling together with their hand over their heart, but some players, objected, according to NFL.com.
Martin Luther King Jr. once famously said “Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.”#BuildABridge pic.twitter.com/n1qP5c2RGM
— Doug Baldwin Jr (@DougBaldwinJr) September 10, 2016
"We are a team comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds," Baldwin said in the video. "And as a team, we have chosen to stand and interlock arms in unity. We honor those who have fought for the freedom we cherish. And we stand to ensure the riches of freedom and the security of justice for all people. Progress can and will be made only if we stand together."
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Baldwin first revealed the Seahawks' plans on his Twitter account on Thursday, probably with the hope that more teams would follow their lead. He certainly has the support of his teammates and coach.
So proud of our guys. Hope you'll stand with us and help build that bridge https://t.co/Z5ubtyWFg7
— Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) September 10, 2016
"Be the example you want to see in others" #Unity #Seahawks #Brotherhood https://t.co/w1YnJHeFG3
— The Enforcer (@Kam_Chancellor) September 10, 2016
You see what we are doing....what are you doing to make a change? Find someone to build a bridge. pic.twitter.com/774LAyWtFF
— Michael Bennett (@mosesbread72) September 10, 2016
CHANGE can Only happen TOGETHER.
— Russell Wilson (@DangeRussWilson) September 10, 2016
Unity. Love. Forgiveness. Change. 🌎
We are linking arms to… https://t.co/FEyWEztBWC
Lions players are also expected to participate in a similar demonstration during their season opener against the Colts in Indianapolis.