Broncos’ linebacker Brandon Marshall lost another sponsorship deal after he chose to take a knee when the national anthem played prior to Denver’s game against Carolina on Thursday.
Last week, it was Air Academy Federal Credit Union. On Monday, cable and internet provider Century Link announced it was also cutting ties with Marshall.
Century Link announced its decision in a statement:
“We completely respect Brandon Marshal’s personal decision and right to take an acton to support something in which he strongly believes. America is anchored in the right of individuals to express their beliefs. While we acknowledge Brandon’s right, we also believe that whatever issues we face, we also occasionally must stand together to show our allegiance to our common bond as a nation. In our view, the national anthem is one of those moments. For this reason, while we wish Brandon the best this season, we are politely terminating our agreement with him.”
Marshall knelt down during “The Star Spangled Banner” as a way to show solidarity with 49ers’ quarterback Colin Kaepernick and others athletes who are protesting racial inequality in America.
“I’m not against the military, I’m not against the police or America,” Marshall explained. “I’m against social injustice.”
It doesn’t sound like he’s backing down anytime soon, either. Marshall told reporters Monday that he plans to kneel during the national anthem in the Broncos’ next game Sunday against the Colts.
One unidentified Broncos fan who apparently did not approve of Marshall’s decision pulled up to Denver’s practice facility and burned a T-shirt with Marshall’s name written on it in ink.
“It’s an evil world. It’s a hateful world,” Marshall said, via the Denver Post. “I’m not here to spread hate. I’m not here to respond to the hate. I’m here to spread love and positivity.”
Marshall mentioned he planned to meet with Denver police chief Robert White. When that meeting will occur is unclear.
