The American football-player, Colin Kaepernick, got Amnesty International’s Highest Honor for his commitment to equal civil rights in the United States and his fight against police brutality. As the death of unarmed black people, who are wrongfully killed by the police, increased. Colin decided to raise awareness to the human rights that were being denied to the people of color. With his teammate Eric Reid by his side, Colin refused in 2016 to stand for the national anthem and instead knelt.[1]
“How can you stand for the national anthem of a nation that preaches and propagates, ‘freedom and justice for all,’ that is so unjust to so many of the people living there?”
Being black shouldn’t be a death wish or a reason to take our voice away. Having too many melanin in our skins shouldn’t put us on the suspect list. Color is irrelevant and should most definitely not justify murder. Even though Colin’s protest is still being misconstrued as disrespect to the country, flag and military personnel. In my eyes it’s just the opposite. It’s a peaceful way to make a statement and give the death a voice. Therefore this awards is more than well deserved!
[1] Amnesty International, Colin Kaepernick is Amnesty’s nieuwe Ambassador of Conscience. Visited on 23 april
