Steve Kerr supports Gabe Kapler's national anthem protest: 'That’s what our country is founded on'

Gabe Kapler may have detractors, like fellow MLB manager Tony La Russa, but the San Francisco Giants manager has support in the Bay Area for his national anthem protest in the wake of the Uvalde, Texas, school shooting that left 19 children and two adults dead.

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr, asked about Kapler's protest, said he will "always support any form of peaceful protest."

"That’s what our country is founded on," said Kerr on Sunday. "I think it’s great that he’s making his own statement."

On Tuesday, the day of the shooting, Kerr delivered a passionate speech prior to the Warriors' Western Conference Finals game against the Dallas Mavericks.

LARGER MEANING: With national anthem stance, Gabe Kapler is showing what real patriotism looks like

SPORTS NEWSLETTER: Sign up now for daily updates sent to your inbox

"When are we going to do something?" Kerr said as he held back tears. "I'm so tired of getting up here and offering condolences to the devastated families that are out there. I'm so tired. Excuse me. I'm sorry. I'm tired of moments of silence. Enough."

Kapler published an essay online Friday explaining why he will not come out onto the field for the playing of the national anthem before games, saying, "I am not okay with the state of this country,"

It's a stance Kerr can get behind.

"I applaud him for it. I think it's important that all of us take part ... I think it's important for everybody to express their frustration, their disgust, their anger, whatever it is, in any way that they deem fitting," Kerr said. "I support everybody's right to demand better from our country."

Kapler said over the weekend he will likely suspend his protest on Monday in honor of Memorial Day.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Steve Kerr backs Gabe Kapler's protest to 'demand better' from country