Letter: Oppressed Americans have been shedding tears for generations
Re “My country” (Letters, Sept 27): The Biblical Yahweh, who punished the wandering Israelites for worshiping a golden calf, would likewise find it idolatry that some Americans have turned rules for respecting the flag into a ritual just short of a cult. This nation was founded on the principle of worshiping as one wishes; and prayer to whomever could include pleas for righting wrongs and human betterment and not mere slavish adulation. Aren't there also ways to honor our flag as we wish? By his deeds, Colin Kaepernick serves America's causes and decency. Bowing one's head in silence on bended knee is not disrespect. Letter writer John Paul may have found reason to cry. Oppressed Americans denied equality have been shedding tears for generations.
Spencer P. Le Gate, Sacramento
This story was originally published September 28, 2017 at 9:27 AM with the headline "Letter: Oppressed Americans have been shedding tears for generations."