DeKALB – Chrystal McAlpin became the latest athlete to make a protest during the national anthem.
The sophomore Northern Illinois volleyball player took a knee during the national anthem before the Huskies defeated Western Michigan in four sets in the conference opener on Thursday night at Victor E. Court.
Not standing during the national anthem, a movement made popular by San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick as a form of protest against police brutality that has seen more and more athletes join him, has been met with controversy around the country. However, McAlpin, who is black, said kneeling was a spur of the moment decision – even Huskies coach Ray Gooden wasn't aware she would do it.