Colin Kaepernick, the controversial athlete and social rights activist, is the face of Nike’s newest ad campaign. The 49ers player has been in the spotlight since kneeling during the National Anthem in 2016 as a part of a protest against police brutality. Nike signed an agreement with Kaepernick to make him the face of the 30th anniversary advertisements and the feedback is mixed, to say the least. Here are some of the reactions people are expressing via social media:
I don't see kneeling as disrespect for our armed forces or veterans. It is a statement about the discrimination, prejudices, and injustices that still age American Society. @Nike & @Kaepernick7 are on the right side of history. #TakeAKnee
— Wes Clark (@GeneralClark) September 5, 2018
Good for Nike. Supporting Colin Kaepernick at a time when most brands lack any political courage is something future generations will remember as part of the company's legacy. Some things are bigger than the bottom line — like being on the right side of history.
— Adam Best (@adamcbest) September 3, 2018
Hey @nike “sacrificing everything” to “believe in something” is dying while serving your country to defend all our freedoms. It isn’t getting paid millions to star in your advertising campaign. Pathetic. pic.twitter.com/4TDv5IQJQd
— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) September 3, 2018
Why did Colin Kaepernick decide to #TakeAKnee? Because US Army veteran and NFL player Nate Boyer reached out to Kap and suggested doing it as a form of respectful protest. pic.twitter.com/0JhlD9GIZd
— VoteVets (@votevets) September 5, 2018
If you don’t wanna wear nike because of Colin Kaepernick, whatever. But how about instead of acting like a hard-ass and burning all your stuff why not donate these clothes and shoes to people who are in need and don’t get to the choice of burning their clothes when they’re upset
— Jack Stephens (@jackstephens789) September 4, 2018
Trump says Nike "is getting absolutely killed" over Colin Kaepernick ad, renews attack on NFL players https://t.co/88BqR6aWVg
— Washington Post (@washingtonpost) September 5, 2018
Time will tell if this controversial ad will help or hurt the brand.
