As we recognize heroes throughout the last 10 years, athletes are often left out of the discussion. Their titles and roles in society often get overlooked as many believe they are merely athletes that need to stick to playing games. This idea was shifted and a new point of view was brought to the table after September 1st, 2016. Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL San Francisco 49ers quarterback and now civil rights activist, changed the world when he knelt down on one knee during the national anthem of his game. Leading up to this event, Kaepernick was seen sitting during the national anthem of the first three preseason games to begin his protests. The message he was sending was to bring light to systematic oppression and police violence within the United States, although that is not how most viewed it to be. This protest has forever changed the world of sports and activism in society today, allowing for more athletes and others to take a stand on their beliefs.
Media outlets ran with this story in a very negative way. Across the country, through the most popular newspapers, online articles, and talk shows, it was portrayed that Kaepernick disrespected the country. Media channels focused on his “unpatriotic and anti-military stance” aside from focusing on the true reason of the protest: to recognize the faults in the country that need to change. He was torn apart for his protest, but there were positive opinions as well. From activists like Shaun King with the Black Lives Matter movement to Rolling Stones contributor Dan O’Sullivan, many viewed Kaepernick in a good light for his protest. Social media, Twitter for the most part, was what pushed this protest to the most viewership across the country. We saw a great majority of fans responses through social media, which also encouraged those to do more research on the matter.
To defend his stance and help shape the media narrative, Kaepernick stood his ground to these issues that were occurring in the country. “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” (Wyche, 2016). He did not stay silent and sit back, instead he continued to protest and educate others on the issue. This helped shape the narrative in a more positive light. After how much media coverage on the protest took place, it has highly enhanced the impact of what kneeling during the anthem can do. It gave others a chance and motivation to do the same and it is now seen a lot in today’s society.
Kaepernick put his football playing career on the line to stand up for the ongoing issues in the country, but as media outlets continued to push the “betrayal” and “disrespect” he portrayed, his NFL career followed the negative outbreak. The 49ers and NFL disapproved this kneel and he later become a free agent in 2017. After this event, Kaepernick was unable to sign with any other NFL team. He is now a civil rights activist, continuing his fight that has forever changed activism in society.
Steve Wyche, 2016. Colin kaepernick explains why he sat during the national anthem. NFL. https://www.nfl.com/news/colin-kaepernick-explains-why-he-sat-during-national-anthem-0ap3000000691077