If you were an athlete would you stand for the national anthem or kneel?

@Hardercranberry Sorry, I don't really understand.

Do we live in different countries, and are you commenting on a matter of your own country's domestic politics?

I answered your question as it stands, on a discussion-group used internationally, and despite using "the" before "national anthem", it is neutral because it asks "would you" without specifying any nation or anthem.

So I answered in the same neutral way, stating I act by the normal practice anywhere: standing for the National Anthem of own country, and that of visitors representing their own country at events such as international sports competitions and State Visits.

Similarly, if I was an athlete or other visitor to another country I would stand for its anthem at the event.

Your question does not refer to or imply justice systems, military services or flags, though obviously as a visitor to any other nation I would respect theirs.

@Hardercranberry I wish the late Pat Pieper were still here. In announcing the national anthem before Cubs games, he always made reference to "honoring our country" when he requested we stand. So do several other sportcast announcers elsewhere. When we stood (and sang) we understood why we were doing it. Even the vendors trolling the aisles stopped in their tracks.

The real problem are the idiots who continue to conduct business, talk or yell during these few minutes. My only beef with these times are those operatic sorts who use the national anthem as a stage to show off their lung power. When I was taught said anthem, my teachers and classmates never stretched out the lyrics.

@Freeranger I support your patriotism. I regret that your family was touched by the tar brush that was part of World War II. We all must live in this world that the Civil War, World Wars I and II, Korea, and later, Vietnam, killed so many of our friends and family. Our ancestors died trusting that we would support the cause they fought for. Now they tear down and burn flags and mock the values they represent. Thank you for sharing.

@Hardercranberry i am british

@Hardercranberry i can offer an honest opinion

@SW-User Talk to the man in the White House. He saw what he saw and objected to it and wanted to to make it a law. Thank God, he couldn't and didn't.