To the editor: I believe most sports fans tune in to actually escape from rancorous reality by watching an exciting and rewarding football game. But they don’t tune in to see some player kneel and whine during our national anthem.

To the editor: I have a question for those people boycotting the NFL because some players are not standing for the anthem, an action which you believe disrespects veterans, though that is clearly not their intent.

To the editor: The United States has a sordid history of oppressing blacks and minorities for over 400 years. Slavery began in the Virginia Colony in 1609. In 2017, we have yet to live out the true meaning of our creed “…that all men are created equal.”

To the editor: When I see the NFL players kneeling with heads bowed — supported by their staff — I see it as praying for more equality in our country. Equal justice, equal opportunity and freedom from prejudice.

To the editor: With the NFL players in the news for kneeling during the national anthem, what do the readers of The Dalles Chronicle and the citizens of this town think about the U.S. Flag and the national anthem? (Send a reporter out onto the streets.)