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Kaepernick faced major backlash from some politicians and celebrities who accused him of disrespecting the military, while his true intention was to highlight serious issues of fairness and equality rather than insult anyone. This incident draws attention to how school textbooks often overlook significant individuals and movements that have fought for social justice, leaving students unaware of the non-military figures who have shaped American history. Activists and movements like the American Indian Movement and labor rights protests are frequently omitted or not given the recognition they deserve in history classes. The author argues for a different approach to teaching history—one that focuses on protests and activism—as it could inspire students to take action and understand that contributing to society encompasses many avenues beyond military service

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In the 2016 NFL preseason, Kaepernick initiated his protests by initially sitting during the national anthem and later deciding to kneel while it was played. He expressed his beliefs by stating, “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color. To me, this is bigger than football.” Kaepernick maintained his protests throughout the 2016 season and consistently used interviews as a platform to speak out against police brutality.

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The issues that Colin Kaepernick addressed during his protest are still very relevant today, especially highlighted by the tragic deaths of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, which have brought discussions of racism and police violence back to the forefront. Kaepernick faced significant backlash for his stance, with some labeling him a traitor, reflecting the deep discomfort some individuals have in confronting these difficult topics. The article also contrasts Kaepernick's peaceful protest with the more chaotic demonstrations occurring now, prompting a reflection on the effectiveness of different methods in driving social change.

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Freedom of the press, which encompasses the right to publish and disseminate information, thoughts, and opinions without restraint or censorship, is guaranteed under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. This principle has had a significant impact on social movements, particularly in sports, where Colin Kaepernick began a kneeling protest in 2016 during the national anthem to highlight racial oppression. His actions inspired a broader movement, and in 2020, English football players adopted the practice of taking the knee before games as a response to the killing of George Floyd in the U.S., which raised awareness about racism. Both the men's and women's England football teams continued this gesture, even participating in it during major tournaments like the European Championships in 2021 and 2022. However, the kneeling protests have faced opposition from some politicians and fans, who argue that the act is overly political and detracts from its original purpose of combating racism. Despite this, England's coach, Gareth Southgate, emphasized that taking the knee is not solely about supporting the Black Lives Matter movement; rather, it serves as a demonstration of solidarity among teammates against racism, cementing the kneeling gesture as a powerful symbol in sports and wider protests.

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Kaepernick grew up primarily in Turlock, California, under the care of his adoptive parents. He attended Pitman High School, where he was an accomplished athlete in multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. He received a scholarship to the University of Nevada, where he became the starting quarterback in his freshman year. Known for his strong passing skills and ability to run with the ball, Kaepernick was recognized as the Western Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year in both 2008 and 2010. He was drafted by the 49ers in the second round of the 2011 NFL draft.

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Kaepernick wrestled with his identity within his blended adoptive family. Culturally speaking, he felt misunderstood. His adoptive parents were white, and while Kaepernick is biracial, he identified as a Black man and the world around him treated him as such.