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In case you missed it, sports apparel giant Nike unveiled an incredibly powerful ad campaign this year, starring former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Kaepernick is, of course, best known for taking a knee during the national anthem to peacefully protest police brutality and systematic racism and injustice, and, since doing so, has been out of a job in the NFL.
Nike tabbed Kaepernick as the face of their current campaign, which celebrates the 30th anniversary of their wildly successful motto, “Just Do It”. The campaign focuses around a powerful quote that alludes to Kaepernick continuing to protest despite losing his job: “Believe in something. Even if it means sacrificing everything.”
Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything. #JustDoIt pic.twitter.com/SRWkMIDdaO
— Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) September 3, 2018
But it’s more than just a billboard and magazine ad campaign. Nike dropped an incredibly powerful commercial, featuring influential stories of athletic success and obstacles overcome, the world over. Check it out.
Despite the success of the campaign, there have been, unsurprisingly, mixed responses. The ones that have gained the most traction have been from detractors upset that Kaepernick’s actions are being praised by Nike. These detractors have taken to social media, and have expressed their displeasure through the burning of sneakers, and the cutting off of Nike logos from socks, shirts, and shorts.
A few members of the Golden State Warriors have responded, both to show support for Kaepernick and Nike, and to criticize those who are damaging worthwhile goods to try and make a point. Kevin Durant posted an Instagram photo of Kaepernick’s ad, and later posted the commercial with the caption, “Pressure. Apply it @kaepernick7”
Shaun Livingston retweeted two few powerful tweets, one pointed out that the response to the ad campaign has been mostly positive, while the other was a concise, strong sentiment from musician Chance The Rapper.
Damn can u be this mad at police brutality https://t.co/TZMttJGXzZ
— Chance The Rapper (@chancetherapper) September 4, 2018
Andre Iguodala kept his response simple while replying to a tweet that pointed out how nearly every major sports apparel company has either supported Kaepernick or criticized Donald Trump, meaning those burning clothing will soon run out of things to wear.
— Andre Iguodala (@andre) September 5, 2018
And finally, Jordan Bell cut straight to the point.
At least donate your shoes instead of burning them... I mean y'all already bought them might as well put them to good use lmao
— Jordan Bell (@1jordanbell) September 4, 2018