"Soldiers died fighting for our freedom not cops. Why disrespect them?" - Colin Kaepernick taking the knee did not sit well with NY hip-hop legend Fat Joe
Irrespective of one's opinion, Colin Kaepernick and his protests are difficult to overlook. Kaepernick first took a knee during an NFL game in 2016 to protest police brutality and racial inequality. His actions drew a mixed response from the NFL community. Hip-hop legend Fat Joe, along with a few others, did not support Kaepernick's stance.
After Colin Kaepernick's kneeling sparked debate, Fat Joe posted a now-deleted tweet in which he claimed the former 49ers QB's actions were disrespectful. The comment was made on September 9, 2016, shortly after the former San Francisco 49ers star started his silent protest during the national anthem.
"Having thout about it, I ain't with protesting the #NationalAnthem. Soldiers died fighting 4 our freedom not cops. Why [disrespect] them?" said Joe.
Fat Joe Doesn't Support Colin Kaepernick's Protest - XXL xxlmag.com/fat-joe-isnt-c…
Though the tweet was promptly deleted, people had already noticed. Certain people agreed with what the 52-year-old singer said, while others criticized him for his stance.
How has Colin Kaepernick continued to speak up?
Kaepernick has been an activist for years. From interviews to social media posts to a documentary, his priorities are clear. Even though he last played in 2017, his impact has been longlasting.
The documentary, "Kaepernick & America", explores the former 49ers quarterback's personal awakening. It explores his upbringing as a bi-racial adoptee who was raised by white parents. It was directed by Tommy Walker and Ross Hockrow. It also features many athletes and personalities who had a front-row seat to it all.
Also Checkout:- Colin Kaepernick Documentaries
Unfortunately, the journey hasn't been smooth for Colin Kaepernick. The NFL icon never ended up signing with another team, with most deals falling through.
He went 1-10 as a starter in 2016, throwing 16 touchdowns and four interceptions. Following the 49ers performances that season, Kaepernick opted out and was a free agent. No team seemed willing to sign the quarterback. He was essentially blackballed. He would go on to sue all 32 teams because of this. He was able to prove that there was collusion to keep him out of the NFL. The league settled the collusion case against him in 2019.
Following this, Kaepernick has continued to pursue rejoining the league. In 2019, he held his own workout at Charles Drew High School in Riverdale, GA. This offseason, he reportedly tried out for the Las Vegas Raiders, but nothing seems to have come from that. He is still not signed to a team.
Off the field, Kaepernick recently welcomed his first child into the world with girlfriend Nessa Diab.