The first time San Francisco 49’s backup quarterback Colin Kaepernick took his stand against police brutality by sitting during the National Anthem, he received a great amount of hate. However, while it did take a while, the ‘woke’ football player is slowly getting the support that he deserves. Whether it’s by inspired fans or more prominent social figures, Kaepernick should know by now that he’s not alone in this fight. Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows as he has also received public disapproval by people such as members of the Santa Clara Police Union and Muhammed Ali’s ex-wife. The hate has not discouraged Kaepernick in the least as he continues on his escapade of showing the world that he is unapologetically Black. Nevertheless, it’s always nice to know that your effort is appreciated, and these are few of many who have told the world that they too stood (or kneeled) with Kap.
1. Megan Rapinoe
The U.S soccer player kneeled during the National Anthem at her game, as a nod to Kaepernick’s similar gesture. As a gay American, she recognizes that there is a lot of oppression behind the red, white, and blue of our flag. This seemingly small gesture means a lot in actuality, and hopefully encourages others to be more aware of both racial and LGBTQ+ injustice. There’s a popular taboo that only black people can/should speak up for racial inequality, but Rapinioe’s gesture helps prove that the taboo is simply false. It takes awareness from all races for change to come, and the more people that continue to believe that they should ‘stay in their lane’ and not support issues of other races, the more we will experience inequality.
2. President Barack Obama
On Monday, when asked to comment on the Kaepernick controversy, the President defended Kaepernick by saying that he was merely “exercising his constitutional right”. While simultaneously being considerate to veterans and others that may feel offended by Kaepernick’s National Anthem kneel, he also reassured us of Kaepernick’s sincerity by stating that his gesture is opening conversations that need to be opened. Kaepernick’s gesture sparks important discussions about inequalities in America. The truth is, we are not all equal in this country, yes we should be, but the reality is that racial privilege stands in the way of that ideal future. It really helps when our President can at least recognize that Kaepernick’s gesture does have a meaningful point.
3. Fellow 49er Teammates
On Thursday, San Fransisco 49er’s safety, Erick Reid kneeled with Kaepernick, to show solidarity with his teammate. The gesture showed that Kaepernick was not alone on his team, and while other teammates may not have joined the duo, they do understand the quarterback’s actions ( this doesn’t speak for everyone on the team). Sport teams create a bond between players, and yes, sometimes your teammates do things that you highly question, but in the end, you’re a team and solidarity is very important. Even if you don’t understand his actions, or support them, you could at least stand with the notion of being one as a team. Yes, it may be a lot to ask for, but in the end, a teammate is a teammate.
5. San Fransisco 49ers Fans
Sales of Colin Kaepernick’s jersey have skyrocketed in the past few days. Some may call it a coincidence, but it’s pretty clear that there are a lot of supporters that stand with Kaepernick. Whether the sales are sprouting from diehard 49ers fans who are willing to financially support the cause or people who have noticed Kaepernick’s actions and were more than willing to add their dollar to the jar, the proof is in the numbers. Kaepernick’s jersey sales speak for the popularity that he has gained in both the Black community and in they eye’s of those who appreciate celebrities speaking up for justice. Someone has to do it, and if it happened to be Colin Kaepernick, then good for him. Sure, you may not support Kaepernick, or even understand the gesture, but the least you can do is recognize that what he’s doing is important.
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