Former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick was honored this week for his commitment to empowering young people around the United States. Since being outcast from the NFL following the 2016 season, Kaepernick has been vocally active in political advocacy.
The 2011 second-round pick founded “Know Your Rights Camp” as a non-profit with the mission “to advance the liberation and well-being of Black and Brown communities through education, self-empowerment, mass-mobilization,” per the organization’s website.
Kaepernick and the foundation go all around the country speaking to children about social justice issues and teaching them how to protect themselves from authorities like the police.
A former San Francisco 49ers QB receives his own day
On Tuesday, Mayor Dwayne D. Warren read off a proclamation declaring June 24 “Colin Kaepernick Day,” per a post on Instagram by KYRC.
“For his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, education, and equity, our co-founder, Colin Kaepernick (@kaepernick7), was honored today with an official proclamation, declaring June 24th as ‘Colin Kaepernick Day’ in the City of Orange, NJ,” The post from KYRC reads.
“Mayor Dwayne D. Warren, Esq., presented the proclamation in front of a packed auditorium during the Orange Preparatory Academy of Inquiry & Innovation’s 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony, where Colin was the surprise special guest speaker.
“He delivered a message that shook the room, rooted in courage, purpose, and the power of trusting your voice and believing in yourself.”
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People on social media were excited about the honor
Posters on Instagram were delighted by the announcement.
“Deserved! We celebrate you,” wrote one fan.
“So awesome & well deserved! Proud of you. Continue being true to yourself!,” posted another.
In addition to his many business interests, Kaepernick, 37, is still trying to fight his way back into the league. He’s still training to play quarterback, though it seems unlikely any NFL team would sign him to even a practice squad contract at this point.
But there is flag football in the upcoming Olympics.
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