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by Eric Braun (Author)
Quarterback Colin Kaepernick drew cheers and criticism when he refused to stand for the US national anthem before NFL games in 2016.
By kneeling during the anthem, Kaepernick wanted to bring attention to what he saw as a pattern of racism and violence by police officers against black people and other people of color in the United States. His protest spread to other athletes and sports and became part of a national discussion about police violence.
Kaepernick's NFL career began in 2011. His running ability helped him lead the San Francisco 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII in 2013. Kaepernick's contract with the 49ers ended in 2017, and he was unable to find another job in the NFL. Many fans and fellow players believe league owners unofficially banned him because of his protests. In 2018 Kaepernick signed a deal to become the face of Nike's "Just Do It" advertising campaign. Learn more about the quarterback who became part of a movement for social change.
