Editor’s note: Broncos linebacker Brandon Marshall took a knee during the national anthem before the NFL’s season opener on Thursday evening. Below is a first-person response exclusive to Broncos Wire from Brandon’s mother, Barbara.

I want people to understand just how intelligent, insightful, and poised my son is.

I am proud of the fact that at such a young age, he has the courage to stand up against social injustice.

Brandon is not against the military; his grandfather served in the Navy during WWII; he has relatives that were and still are serving our country.

He’s not against the police; he has relatives that were and still are police officers. Brandon is standing up for racial inequality for social injustice. For what he sees played out in the media seemingly every day. I understand that it is 2016 and things are supposed to be better, but they aren’t as they should be. This is fact, not fiction.

Related Broncos release statement on Brandon Marshall kneeling during national anthem

Why is it that athletes can’t have an opinion? People seem to feel that athletes should stay in their place. After all, some are paid millions to entertain us, so why should they have a voice? It’s, “Just shut up and play ball.” Why?!

What happened to Freedom of Speech? “The concept of the inherent right to voice one’s opinion publicly without fear of censorship or punishment?”

Doesn’t Brandon have the right to voice his opinion under the First Amendment of the Constitution?

Or, is he supposed to negate this right because he’s a pro athlete?

I am really saddened by all of the hate that has been spewed at my son. I’m sure after this article, people will have an opinion about me. So be it . . . it is what it is.

I have raised not one, but two sons who happen to be black. Both of them, one a pro athlete, the other an up-and-coming vocal artist, have an opinion, and care about the quality of life of people. They have both been victims of racial profiling, as have I. But, we know we have to keep on living and doing what’s right.

My children aren’t bad people. They have never been in any kind of trouble. They are law-abiding citizens, and I am very proud of them.

Change doesn’t happen overnight, it takes one step at a time. Sometimes though, it takes someone with a bigger platform than you or I to say, “Hey, things have to change. I’m taking a stand to try to make that happen. I have a voice, and I’m going to use it.”

He said he prayed about his decision and that was the right thing to do. I’m proud of him I will support my son in his stance against social injustice.

— Barbara Marshall