Everyone by now has seen the photos of a wistful-looking Colin Kaepernick sitting down during the playing of the National Anthem before his and the rest of the San Francisco 49ers made their NFL pre-season debut on August 26th against the Green Bay Packers. Kaepernick claimed his actions were in solidarity and that, "I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color." This seemingly "vanilla" protest began a national conversation with some claiming he was disrespecting war veterans and America through his actions, while others supported his right to do so. Nevertheless, it was a big week in news that was overshadowed while rousing conversation on whether or not the football man should sit or stand dominated talk around the water-cooler. So, without further ado, here are four important stories you may have missed in the week following the Kaepernick conversation.
1. Brock Turner released on shortened jail sentence
Convicted Stanford rapist Brock Turner skirted out of an already controversially short term (six month) jail sentence, being released after just three months on September 2nd. This early release was actually decided upon in June; his sentence being shortened due to "premeditated good behavior".
2. Zika virus confirmed in the United States
For the first time in the United States, the Zika virus has been identified in captured mosquitoes from Miami Beach. Previously, the disease had reared its head in many areas of South America in addition to the Pacific Islands and Singapore. Zika causes some discomfort and flu-like symptoms in its infant stages but can cause detrimental long-term effects such as birth defects in children.
3. ISIS official spokesman and senior member killed
Mohammad al-Adnani of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) was killed while inspecting military operations in Syria. al-Adnani acted as the ringleader of propaganda and was specifically tasked with planning attacks outside of ISIS territory. His death is considered to be a major blow to the radical terrorist group.
4. DNA was sequenced in space for the first time
For the first time in history, DNA has been sequenced in the International Space Station by a machine called MinION and an astronaut named Kate Rubins. This technological advancement means better healthcare for astronauts (being able to diagnose illnesses onsite) as well as easier identification of DNA-based life forms beyond Earth; aka, aliens.
Don't care so much about Kaepernick now, huh?
