In a nation that often celebrates significant milestones, it has now been a decade since Colin Kaepernick initiated his protest against police violence—specifically, the unpunished killings of Black individuals—by kneeling during the national anthem throughout the 2016 NFL season. This act of defiance led to his subsequent exclusion from the league, a decision that still resonates today.
Over the past ten years, much has transpired in America, particularly amid a backdrop of social and political turmoil. The vital context surrounding Kaepernick’s protest, his resultant alienation, and his overall impact have faded from public consciousness. Time seems to accelerate, overshadowed by an era dominated by fleeting digital interactions, where knowledge is often reduced to viral snippets rather than a deep understanding of issues.
While Kaepernick’s narrative has frequently been simplified to focus on his individual exile, he stands alongside Barack Obama as a pivotal figure who ignited a “culture war” that continues to evolve. This ongoing conflict has permeated various spheres, including the NFL, Hollywood, the White House, and now the WNBA. Although Obama’s presidency symbolized a breakthrough in racial representation, it did not universally signal acceptance of Black leadership in America.
In the rich history of American protest—marked by actions ranging from suffragist demonstrations to civil rights marches—Kaepernick’s method was relatively subdued. He articulated his dissent succinctly, stating, “To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way,” during a preseason game on August 26, 2016. His words highlighted the grave injustices faced by marginalized communities, contrasting sharply with the historical narratives of protest that often involved more overt confrontations.
Reflecting on Kaepernick’s legacy a decade later reveals a stark reality: sports leagues have largely sidelined dissenting voices and commodified protests into superficial, corporate-friendly gestures. The election of Donald Trump, whose overt racism resonated with many voters, further entrenched divisions. Media entities, in a bid to appease their audiences, often chose to mute uncomfortable truths, neglecting their journalistic responsibilities in the process. A new generation of athletes, aware of Kaepernick’s fate, has largely refrained from taking similar risks, choosing instead to adhere to safer, more accepted narratives.
Despite Trump’s derogatory remarks labeling NFL players as “sons of bitches” and his calls for Kaepernick’s banishment, some players, like Dak Prescott, publicly distanced themselves from Kaepernick’s protest by emphasizing action over symbolic gestures. Prescott’s comments undermined the historical significance of physical protest, despite the lack of any notable activism on his part.
In a notable contrast, former NFL player Michael Vick—who had a controversial past—suggested Kaepernick should alter his appearance to gain acceptance in the league. Meanwhile, Ray Lewis, a Hall of Famer with a troubled history, faced minimal repercussions for his past actions while Kaepernick faced exile for his peaceful protest. This disparity raises questions about accountability and justice within the sport.
The dynamics of race and ownership in America are complex, with many white citizens perceiving the country as a possession they are willing to share selectively. This sentiment is often echoed in the everyday interactions between racial groups, reinforcing a narrative that Black individuals must seek permission to participate fully in societal structures. Such attitudes contribute to a sense of entitlement that can lead to outrage when their perceived privileges are challenged, as Kaepernick’s protest did a decade ago.
The ramifications of Kaepernick’s actions extend to a broader political philosophy, suggesting that Black individuals are often viewed through the lens of affirmative action rather than merit. It wasn’t until the tragic murder of George Floyd in 2020, amid a global pandemic, that a significant portion of the nation began to recognize the validity of Kaepernick’s message. Even NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell eventually conceded that the league had erred in its response to player protests, albeit under duress rather than genuine conviction.
The events of January 6, 2021, marked a turning point in the landscape of athlete activism, signaling the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality in America.
