A Norwich pub is protesting the NFL as many players continue to kneel during the national anthem.
At Harp & Dragon on Main Street, managing partner Scott Capano said they’re refusing to show anything NFL-related because of the protest.
Signs in the bar read:
WE WILL NO LONGER SHOW ANYTHING NFL RELATED. We will also no longer be carrying any associated products. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. This is not political or race driven in any way. Strictly a respect for our great country and flag that allows us to express ourselves as we wish. God bless America and the ones who love and serve it.
Capano said he hasn’t aired NFL games for two weeks.
"We believe anyone here in the U.S. has a right to protest, but we don't believe it should be directed at our flag or national anthem which represents all those that have served to provide us with the freedoms we enjoy today,” he wrote in a statement to NBC Connecticut.
More than 200 players either took a knee or used other expressions of unity last weekend during the national anthem in response to racial and social injustices.
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The movement fueled outrage from President Donald Trump who said the players should be fired for their defiance.
At Harp & Dragon, people seem to understand management’s decision, but on its Facebook page, it’s been met with some backlash.
"Not political? Ummmm....that would be sticking to running a business and not interjecting yourself into a national situation. What you've done is let us all know that you don't want business from decent people. When your business falls apart just remember that you did this to yourself," one user wrote.
Some patrons expressed support for the bar.
"I support them. I think that’s a good thing. They’re standing up for our veterans and our country," said Kathleen Calash of Oakdale.
Capano said they’ll continue not to air NFL games indefinitely.
