" In the stands, I’ve always heard the people yelling. When I’m in the community, when I get approached, I can honestly say I’ve not had anybody say stop kneeling in public. It’s all been supportive. "
- Eric Reid

In the given statement, Eric Reid reflects on his experiences when interacting with people both at events and within his community. He observes that during games or public gatherings, spectators sometimes express opinions about kneeling as a form of protest, but when he meets individuals directly in everyday settings, there is no negative feedback regarding this stance. Instead, the support he receives is overwhelmingly positive.

The deeper meaning of Reid's words touches on the contrast between anonymous and direct interactions. He highlights how public spaces can amplify divisive voices or criticisms, yet face-to-face encounters reveal a more supportive community that respects his choices and values personal engagement over distant critique. This insight underscores the importance of meaningful human connections in understanding complex social issues and promoting empathy.

Eric Reid is an American football player known for his activism and advocacy on issues related to racial justice. He gained significant attention when he joined Colin Kaepernick in kneeling during the national anthem, a protest that sparked nationwide conversations about police brutality and racism. His reflections on public reactions to this form of protest highlight both the challenges faced by activists and the underlying support from their communities.