FLOWERY BRANCH, GA. - Atlanta Falcons owner and chairman Arthur Blank issued a statement late Saturday afternoon in regard to the national controversy that has resulted over President Donald Trump's statement that NFL players who don't stand for the national anthem should be fired.

"We are at our very best when we are working together, building unity and including everyone’s voice in a constructive dialogue," Blank said in a statement. "Creating division or demonizing viewpoints that are different than our own accomplishes nothing positive and undermines our collective ability to achieve the ideals of our democracy.

"The NFL has historically been a strong catalyst for positive change and I’m proud of the way our players, coaches and staff use that platform to give back to our community and strive to be good citizens making a positive impact on this and future generations.”

Earlier in the day, the Falcons front office issued a statement affirming Blank's "well-known position on freedom, inclusion and equality," the team said. "He has advocated for all of them in word and deed, repeatedly."

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http://www.11alive.com/sports/nfl-roger-goodell-respond-to-donald-trumps-divisive-comments/478094158