From Kneeling to a Legacy: Colin Kaepernick and the Evolution of Athlete Activism
Nearly a decade ago, Colin Kaepernick, then quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, sparked a national conversation by kneeling during the national anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality. What began as a solitary act of protest has evolved into a powerful movement, reshaping the landscape of sports and activism in the United States.
The Initial Protest and Backlash
Kaepernick’s decision to kneel, a gesture of respect rooted in the history of civil rights protests, immediately drew both support and fierce opposition. He specifically cited the deaths of Alton Sterling and Philando Castile as catalysts for his actions, stating it was “bigger than football.” The protest coincided with the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement, amplifying the call for racial equality.
The response was swift and polarizing. While some NFL players, like Eric Reid, joined Kaepernick in protest, others distanced themselves. The controversy escalated when then-President Donald Trump publicly criticized Kaepernick, calling for NFL team owners to “fire” him. Shortly after, Kaepernick found himself without a team, leading to accusations of a league-wide boycott.
Black Lives Matter and the Expansion of Athlete Activism
In June 2020, following the death of George Floyd, the Black Lives Matter movement gained unprecedented momentum. This resurgence saw widespread demonstrations across the country, with athletes from various sports adopting the kneeling protest as a symbol of solidarity. The gesture was replicated not only in football but also in women’s basketball and other professional leagues.
Kaepernick Beyond the Field: A Cultural Icon
After leaving the NFL, Kaepernick transitioned into full-time activism. He founded a publishing house dedicated to amplifying the voices of marginalized communities, aiming to empower young people and promote social justice. He maintains a significant online presence, with millions of followers on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
The Super Bowl as a Platform for Protest
The Super Bowl, a major cultural event, has increasingly become a platform for artists to express their views on social and political issues. The performers selected for the halftime show and pre-game ceremonies have often used their platform to advocate for causes they believe in. The 2026 Super Bowl is expected to continue this trend, with performers openly critical of current political policies.
Artists like Green Day and Bad Bunny have recently demonstrated their willingness to use their platforms to voice opposition to political figures and policies. Bad Bunny, for example, used the Grammy Awards to address concerns about immigration policies.
Trump’s Response and the 2026 Super Bowl
Donald Trump has consistently reacted negatively to displays of political activism at the Super Bowl, labeling them as “ridiculous.” He has announced he will not attend the 2026 Super Bowl, citing the distance as a reason, but likely influenced by the anticipated protests.
Super Bowl 2026
The 2026 Super Bowl will feature the Fresh England Patriots against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, kicking off on Monday at 0:30 AM (French time).
FAQ
Q: Why did Colin Kaepernick start kneeling?
A: He knelt to protest racial injustice and police brutality against African Americans.
Q: What was the reaction to Kaepernick’s protest?
A: The reaction was highly polarized, with some supporting him and others criticizing him, including then-President Donald Trump.
Q: Is Colin Kaepernick still playing football?
A: No, he is no longer playing professional football and is now a full-time activist.
Q: Has the Super Bowl become a platform for activism?
A: Yes, artists performing at the Super Bowl have increasingly used the event to express their views on social and political issues.
