By Now, We've heard about San Francisco 49ers quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, standing against racial inequality by sitting down during the national anthem. While there has been a lot of conversation around him doing so, mostly on the protest and not what he was protesting, the fact still remains that this is just one act. While it was admirable of him to take a cue from Tommie Smith and John Carlos, there is still more work to be done. Simply refusing to acknowledge the symbols of a country that perpetuates inequality is a nice starting point. I want to know what else Kaepernick plans to do in order to drive home the fact that the money he makes is not enough to buy his compliance with institutionalized racism.
It was after Kaepernick's public protest, images surfaced of the quarterback wearing socks with pigs on the socks. Kaepernick's response was that he wore them to protest those first responders who abuse their power and authority. While the socks were witty, to say the least, Kaepernick seems to only be scraping the service when it comes to speaking out against racial prejudice. Writing a check and making public statements will only go so far. Comprehensive action for reform is what is needed, particularly from public figures like Kaepernick who intend to position themselves as though leaders.
Take, for example, the statement that Kaepernick made when the conversation switched to him sitting to the socks he was wearing. While it's nice that he's using his public profile to make a statement, it only does so much. And writing a check to charity can only go so far. If Kaepernick wants to continue to contribute to the conversation about racial inequality, he'll have to become an active participant in the fight for equality. Take, for example, LeBron James, who has found creative ways to funnel money into his hometown, the least of which included bringing home a championship ring.
Regardless of what happens to his career at this point, Colin Kaepernick is at a pinnacle moment which could pan out well for him if he uses it correctly. A foundation or even a partnership with another big-name athlete who shares his beliefs and passion for fighting racial inequality would be a step in the right direction. Or, if that’s too much of a commitment, Kaepernick could always pull a Jesse Williams and join the physical protests when they take place. The point is that Kaepernick has decided to position himself as a thought leader in this large movement. The small actions he;s been taking are not going to ensure his longevity as such. Currently, it doesn't seem that Kaepernick has fully grasped what the Black Lives Matter movement means beyond him being a poster-child. Hopefully, he’ll keep pushing forward, but for now his first steps are unimpressive.
