this is a good post, NJ. sitting out the anthem pisses off an awful lot of people and makes you look douchy, but it doesn't really address the problem he's protesting. it's also not one of those problems that is unknown to most people - there have been enough incidences and enough media coverage that everyone is well aware by now. so why not go to a city where this has been a problem - or just go to your own backyard in oakland - and donate a big check to an inner city school district for supplies or books or computers or whatever, or help fund a boys or girls club, or an inner city sports program, or do something of consequence. just sitting on your can because you're upset doesn't do anything. as my grandpa used to say, if you want something done, pick up a shovel and get going.