Williamsburg councilman sits during Pledge of Allegiance

Last month, Brooklyn Councilman Jumaane Williams, inspired by San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, decided to sit during the Pledge of Allegiance during a City Council meeting.

Williams posted on his Instagram account that he sat to “highlight the plight of so many” and give to a voice to those who “feel voiceless and who struggle everyday.”

He then received racist hate mail from those who objected to his protest.
Williams responded with this following statement:

“First, I want to thank those who sent positive messages and emails of support. The over-the-top responses shows where we are in this country. There are some who complain about a peaceful protest, so it begs the question what are people really angered by – is it the act of protesting irrespective of what form it takes, or they simply believe there is nothing to protest about.  It seems to me that some have a problem with protesting in general whether it’s peaceful prayer, an act of civil disobedience, or in the form of engaging in destructive behavior. I am exercising my right as an American to speak out about something I believe in and the hateful responses underscores the need for it.”

“Lastly, the irony should not be lost on anyone that these are racist responses to a protest about continued racial inequality. I invite all New Yorkers of goodwill to join me at City Hall this Wednesday at noon to continue the discussion about a practice this is rooted in the best values of America.”