Just Express It: Nike’s Colin Kaepernick Ad

Recently, Nike released a controversial ad, featuring Colin Kaepernick, which sparked debate throughout America. One ad shows Kaepernick’s face emblazoned with the words “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.” This is a reference to the famous kneeling protests, started by Kaepernick, in which athletes would kneel or sit during the national anthem, as a form of protesting the police brutality problem in America. Many were disgusted at Kaepernick’s actions, saying that it was unpatriotic and disrespectful to kneel, especially because the anthem is meant to represent America and what it stands for.

In response to the ad, many people who deem Kaepernick’s actions to be disrespectful have been burning their Nike gear in order to express their disappointment in Nike. Others cut the Nike logo off of various pieces of clothing as their own forms of protest. Later, US President Trump weighed in, tweeting “Nike is getting absolutely killed with anger and boycotts,” and saying that he would refuse to watch the NFL “until they stand for the FLAG!” Of course, many others supported Nike in their decision to include Kaepernick in the ad. Athletes and celebrities such as Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady, Michael B Jordan, and Kelly Clarkson all showed their support for Nike ad through various social media platforms.

As someone who was born and raised in America, I believe that it is anyone’s choice to express their opinion in a respectful manner. Kneeling during the national anthem is not illegal under the first amendment–right of freedom of speech. Colin Kaepernick is simply standing up for what he believes in and is protesting for change. The people who are angry about the protest are mainly conservative Republicans. I find it ironic that these same people who claim freedom of speech every time they make a racist statement are now attempting to infringe on Colin Kaepernick’s right to free speech. I have been taught to respect the flag and what it stands for, but I was also taught to respect the rights of others, even if I do not necessarily agree with them.

Watch the controversial Nike ad here.