Cleveland Cavaliers refuses to respect the National Anthem

[BigCat]

Originally Posted by jwwashburn

I am not advocating his arrest. He has the "right" to not stand. He does not have the First Amendment protection to intentionally and publicly embarrass his employer without consequences. The NBA and the Cavaliers also have rights.

In addition, The First Amendment does not protect him against breaking the rules of the NBA.

he could tell a referee he thinks he is stupid. Is it illegal? No. Will there be consequences? Of course.

Unfortunately, or fortunately depending on your perspective, First Amendment protections are limited in private employment settings. Main protection is against government taking action against you for what you say. However, Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act protects "sincerely held" religous beliefs.

Don't know enough about his claim but pretty sure NBA wouldn't want referees making the decision if his belief was sincere or not...thx