America is built on ideals. Athletes who kneel during the national anthem are performing their patriotic duty as enshrined in:

The US ConstitutionThe Pledge of AllegianceThe National Anthem

In the following, I will prove, beyond reasonable doubt, that kneeling for the flag is patriotic.

Yes, proof, Quod Erat Demonstrandem

Just as the three laws of thermodynamics begin with a zeroth law to set the stage, let me point out:

0. Kneeling has never been a sign of disrespect.

People kneel before Gods and kings.

The US Constitution:

The very first thing that the US Constitution says:

“We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union …”

The reason that athletes kneel for the national anthem is to “form a more perfect union.”

2. The Pledge of Allegiance

“…with liberty and justice for all.”

Kneeling athletes are demanding nothing more nor less than “liberty and justice for all.”

3. The National Anthem

“…the land of the free and the home of the brave.”

Kneeling during the National Anthem with a national TV audience watching means risking your career for your beliefs. That takes bravery and is an expression of freedom.

The proof:

Far from being an offense to the flag or anything it represents, kneeling is a universal sign of respect.

Right out the gate, the document that forms the foundation of the United States demands that we all pursue a “more perfect union” — exactly the goal of the athletes who kneel during the anthem.

Most of us said it every day as children. We pledge that our country demands “liberty and justice for all” — precisely what the athletes are asking for.

And, don’t kid yourself, kneeling for the flag takes bravery and can only happen in the land of the free.

QED