Kaepernick and Springsteen receive new ACLU award for activism
9 reported
Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick and rock star Bruce Springsteen were honored Friday night with the ACLU Ralph Ellison Award for Defenders of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties in the Arts, Business, Science and Sports. The award, presented by the American Civil Liberties Union, recognizes contributions to American thought and culture. The honor comes a decade after Kaepernick knelt during the national anthem in protest against police violence and racial inequality. Kaepernick said in his acceptance speech that civil liberties, humanity, and education are under attack, and that the decisions made now will shape the reality future generations inherit. The event was hosted by actress Laverne Cox, and Springsteen closed the ceremony with a solo rendition of “Streets of Minneapolis.” ACLU President Deborah Archer said Kaepernick’s peaceful protest was met with personal sacrifice, including the loss of his career and public attacks.
What’s reported
Colin Kaepernick and Bruce Springsteen received the ACLU Ralph Ellison Award for Defenders of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties in the Arts, Business, Science and Sports.
The award was presented Friday night by the American Civil Liberties Union.
The honor comes a decade after Kaepernick knelt during the national anthem in protest against police violence and racial inequality.
Kaepernick stated in his acceptance speech that civil liberties, humanity, and education are under attack.
Kaepernick was joined in protest by teammate Eric Reid and others, and he drew criticism from politicians, team owners, and other players.
Kaepernick and Reid filed collusion grievances against the NFL in 2017, reaching a settlement in 2019.
ACLU President Deborah Archer said Kaepernick’s peaceful protest was met with personal sacrifice, including loss of his career and public attacks.
Springsteen closed the event with a solo rendition of “Streets of Minneapolis.”
The ceremony was hosted by actress Laverne Cox.
Key figures
Colin Kaepernick, former NFL quarterback
Bruce Springsteen, rock star
Deborah Archer, ACLU president
Eric Reid, former NFL teammate of Kaepernick
Laverne Cox, actress and event host
Sources: abcnews.com
