Michael Strahan and The Pledge of Allegiance

https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5918674/2024/11/13/michael-strahan-national-anthem-criticism-fox/

("Michael Strahan anthem controversy shouldn’t make you mad, unless
you’re looking to be mad') (The Athletic)

So this is what we focus on?

I remember the time, not so very long ago, where the controversy was
kneeling during the playing of the Anthem. As if this was a show of
disrespect to this nation, not a proclamation of nearly 250 years of
struggle to obtain civil rights for a population that continues to
suffer disproportionate abuses.

But put that aside for the moment. Have we not more important matters where
to direct our attention? Have we not been awake during the nine year
assault of Donald Trump on our senses, on our institutions, on the
very heart and soul of our democracy? Have we not been witness to
Charlottesville, to January 6th, to the recent defecation at Madison
Square Garden? Have we not seen the violence, the incendiary rhetoric,
the decimation of the values, the true values, that should be the
bedrock of this nation?

So, Michael Strahan didn't put his hand over his heart. If anyone
knows his history and if anyone heard his statement in response to the
backlash, it would make the uproar not only seem petty, but ludicrous
and wholly misplaced.

Support for this country does not begin, or end, with actions like
those of Mr. Strahan. It rests with treating the occupants of this
nation with decency, dignity, with respect and with a commitment to
upholding the bedrock principles that the flag is intended to
represent. That is our true pledge of allegiance.

When we lose sight of the larger picture and focus instead on an
"incident" like that involving Michael Strahan, we have truly lost our
way.