Colin Kaepernick sits during National Anthem

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (KTVU) - San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick did not stand during the National Anthem at Friday night's preseason game.

Kaepernick spoke to NFL Media after the game saying, "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color."

He added, "To  me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."

The 49ers have issued a statement about Kaepernick's decision saying, "The national anthem is and always will be a special part of the pre-game ceremony. It is an opportunity to honor our country and reflect on the great liberties we are afforded as its citizens. In respecting such American principles as freedom of religion and freedom of expression, we recognize the right of an individual to choose to participate, or not, in our celebration of the national anthem."

Twitter uses had strong reactions following his refusal to stand during the anthem: