The Zeta Upsilon Chapter of Iota Phi Theta at Southeast Missouri State University held an open forum to discuss free speech on Sept. 22 in the UC Ballroom, specifically related to Colin Kaepernick’s decision to not stand for the national anthem.

A group of 20 students of different backgrounds and belief systems gathered to discuss their viewpoints regarding Kaepernick’s protest. The central issue debated during the forum was if not rising for the national anthem is disrespectful toward men and women of the military.

Justin Robinson, president of Iota Phi Theta, said he believes many people are misinterpreting the message Kaepernick intended to create by kneeling during the national anthem.

“In the sports world, and in the entire world, we missed the point of exactly what Kaepernick wanted to do,” Robinson said. “I wanted to bring this conversation to this campus because I know there are many different opinions on this issue. Just this weekend, at the tailgate, someone put up a sign that said ‘Colin Kaepernick can sit on my thumb.’ We should be able to express our views in a healthy way.”

Robinson led the discussion by dividing the presentation into several parts. The beginning of the discussion involved speaking about the people in the military’s reaction to Kaepernick’s action, followed by the sports world’s reaction and concluded with the injustices Kaepernick was protesting, such as police brutality and racism.

Steven Taylor, Iota Phi Theta adviser and academic specialist for TRIO/Student Support Services, said topics like these are important because they directly impact students’ lives and future generations.

“Discussions like these present the opportunity to create meaningful solutions,” Taylor said. “It also allows us to learn from one another and even collaborate in creating a resolution. Not everyone feels comfortable discussion controversial issues like these, so we wanted to create a safe haven for Southeast [students] to express their viewpoints comfortably.”

Robinson held this forum as one of three events for Iota Phi Theta weekend, an opportunity to learn more about the fraternity. Other events included a Madden ’17 Tournament, College Gameday and an informational about Iota Phi Theta.. For more information about other NPHC organizations, students may visit www.semogreeks.com/nphc.