Summary Of You Don T Call Him Un-American

Ian O’Connor’s article, “You can knock Colin Kaepernick -- don’t call him un-American”, presents an argument to the reader that the criticism of the character and patriotism of San Francisco 49ers quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, is unwarranted. O’Connor argues that Kaepernick’s recent actions of riding the bench for the playing of the national anthem during the team’s preseason illustrates an essential principle of American ideals, the right to freedom of expression. While not the most scholarly in nature, the argument made proves to be effective by attracting and challenging the target demographic, establishing an adequate perspective and background related the situation, and framing Kaepernick’s actions as a man courageously and freely expressing himself. One key element of any persuasive piece in challenging and provoking thought in the reader’s mind. Starting right in the headline, O’Connor challenges a large portion of his intended audience. The title is indeed the reason I read the article in the first place. The provocative command the author gives the reader, “… don’t call him un-American” (O’Connor), should be an eye-catching headline to those who disagree. The headline choice is extremely
I agree this is a fair point, but the purpose of the author is to install the notion that expressing one’s conscience is a key American principle. The article is also lacking a counterbalance to the narrative that blacks are being oppressed, but again this point is outside the larger focus of the issue. Another legitimate problem here is that the author is a sports journalist, not a political commentator, and thus has little expertise in the relevant discussion, but the arguments he gives are not beyond his capacity to make and stand on their own