Giants' John Mara's niece, Kate Mara, defends players who kneel for anthem

Mara says it is their 'constitutional right' to 'stand, or kneel or sit'

8/30/2018, 1:48 AM
Dec 24, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Olivier Vernon (54) kneels during the National Anthem prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports / Matt Kartozian
Dec 24, 2017; Glendale, AZ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Olivier Vernon (54) kneels during the National Anthem prior to the game against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports / Matt Kartozian

Actress Kate Mara has ties to the NFL, being the great-granddaughter of Giants founder Tim Mara and Steelers founder Art Rooney. 

Her uncle is also Giants' co-owner John Mara, which is why she was asked about the NFL's new anthem policy that John Mara helped form in an interview with Variety.

"I believe everybody has a constitutional right to stand, or kneel or sit during the national anthem," she said. 

The new policy states that any players that are not on the field or standing for the national anthem on gameday will be fined by the NFL, and can be subject to fines by their team as well.

Other than serious topics about football, Kate has been around the game since she was a kid, and reflected on her experiences going to Giants games on Sundays. 

"It reminds me of my childhood," she said. "Going to a Giants game in New York with my family on a Sunday to me, that is the normal way and the most comforting way because you're surrounded by family, and love, and a lot of passion."


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