Colin Kaepernick, the former NFL quarterback known for his activism against police brutality, spoke out against former President Donald Trump during an interview on The Wall Street Journal podcast, “The Future of Everything.” Kaepernick is best known for taking a knee during the national anthem at the San Francisco 49ers games in 2016, a move that sparked widespread debate about social justice and the role of athletes in activism.
In the aftermath of his protest, Trump, who won the presidency that year, claimed credit for Kaepernick’s absence from the NFL, suggesting that team owners were afraid of receiving negative tweets from him.
During a rally in March 2017, Trump articulated his views on the kneeling protests, stating that NFL owners did not want to face backlash from him. He further escalated his rhetoric later that year, expressing a desire to see NFL owners take a hard stance against players who disrespected the American flag, stating, “Get that son of a b—- off the field right now.” Trump’s comments were part of a broader attempt to galvanize his base by framing the kneeling protests as unpatriotic, which contributed to Kaepernick’s ongoing exclusion from the league.
In his recent interview, Kaepernick reflected on the significance of Trump’s actions and rhetoric, suggesting that it is easier for him to analyze the situation with the benefit of hindsight. He emphasized the gravity of a sitting president using their influence to target an individual citizen, noting how this moment in history is relevant to ongoing discussions about social justice and equality. Kaepernick believes that these events are important to consider in shaping the future that society must collectively strive to create.
Kaepernick also discussed his perspective on the George Floyd protests in 2020, highlighting the fundamental question of whether people should live without the threat of violence and discrimination. He expressed a commitment to advocating for a society where individuals are not judged or marginalized based on race, religion, or socioeconomic status. This broader commitment to social justice underscores his continued relevance in discussions about race and equality in America.
Despite not having played in the NFL since 2016, Kaepernick remains hopeful about returning to the league. He has maintained a rigorous training schedule, waking up at 3:30 a.m. daily to stay prepared in case an opportunity arises. Additionally, he has ventured into entrepreneurship, serving as CEO of the tech startup Lumi Story AI. Kaepernick’s journey reflects his dedication to both his athletic aspirations and his commitment to activism, illustrating the complex relationship between sports, politics, and social justice.
