Opinion | A national anthem debate led America to reaffirm freedom of speech. Hong Kong should take note

Jason Buhi says the US found strength in diversity amid the soul-searching inspired by NFL players’ refusal to stand during the national anthem

Hong Kong legislators who will soon consider a bill making it a crime to disrespect the Chinese national anthem should consider the consequences of such a law

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San Francisco 49ers cheerleader Kayla Morris kneels during the playing of the national anthem, before the NFL game against Seattle Seahawks in Santa Clara, California, on December 16. According to the United States Code, any person present during the playing or singing of the anthem ‘should’ stand at attention with their right hand over their heart, but there are no penalties for non-compliance. Photo: USA Today Sports

Published: 3:00am, 15 Jan 2019Updated: 5:56am, 15 Jan 2019

The saga of Hong Kong implementing China’s 2017 national anthem law has coincided with Americans openly reexamining their policies on national anthem etiquette following the headline-stealing protests of National Football League players. As in other areas, the two countries make for a fascinating comparison.

San Francisco 49er quarterback Colin Kaepernick ignited a controversy by first sitting down, then taking a knee during the national anthem throughout the 2016-2017 football season, to highlight the series of tragic deaths of African Americans at the hands of police officers.

The 49ers, taken by surprise, quickly issued a statement: “In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognise the right of an individual to choose and participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem.”

The organisation was correct. No law requires American citizens to take particular action during the playing of their national anthem. According to the United States Code, any person present during the playing or singing of the anthem “should” stand at attention with their right hand over their heart. There are no penalties for non-compliance.

San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Eli Harold, quarterback Colin Kaepernick and safety Eric Reid kneel during the national anthem before a game in October 2016. The act of protest ignited a national conversation on anthem etiquette. Photo: AP

More players knelt. A national debate ensued, with opinions coming from the highest levels of American government and society.

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