Copyright © 2019 Joseph George Caldwell. All rights reserved. Posted at Internet website http://www.foundationwebsite.org. May be copied or reposted for non-commercial use, with attribution to author and website. (4 July 2019)
Colin Kaepernick, a professional American football player, is infamous for kneeling during singing of the American National Anthem at the beginning of a football match, in 2016. He has had a business relationship with sports shoemaker Nike, advising on and promoting their products. Recently, Nike advertised the introduction of a new sneaker featuring Betsy Ross’ 13-star American flag. Just days before its release, the shoe was removed from the market. The Wall Street Journal reported that Nike’s decision to remove the shoe came after Kaepernick raised concerns that the flag was offensive because it was created when slavery was still legal in the United States.
The Betsy Ross Revolutionary-War-era flag is a symbol of the founding of the United States of America, and a symbol of independence and patriotism. Until now, it has not been viewed as a symbol of slavery, along with Britain’s Union Jack or the national flag of any other country that existed during the era of black slavery. A logical inference of Kaepernick’s view is that the United States itself is a symbol of slavery, and should be removed.
To a far greater extent than Betsy Ross’ flag, or Nike’s sneakers, or the United States, Colin Kaepernick is a reminder of slavery and a symbol of slavery. Should Colin Kaepernick be removed?
FndID(135)
FndTitle(Miscellany 62: Should Colin Kaepernick Be Removed?)
FndDescription(Miscellany 62: Should Colin Kaepernick Be Removed?)
FndKeywords(Colin Kaepernick)