"As officers we confirm the problem Colin took knee 4exists within NYPD.We don't need 2wait 20yrs 2see what he's doing is right"-Sgt Raymond pic.twitter.com/GVc4pY1vqS
— Justice League NYC (@NYjusticeleague) August 19, 2017
Since Colin Kaepernick kneeled during the national anthem last year in a protest against the oppressive violence towards people of color in the United States, he gained national media attention. While many praised him for his bravery and civil protest against police brutality and racism, many were quick to criticize him and call him "un-American" and "anti-police." This is despite the fact that Kaepernick plans on using alternative methods of social action in upcoming NFL seasons.
After last season, Kaepernick has not been signed to a team, and most view it as retribution for using his status as a NFL player for a platform for political change. As a result, many are rallying around Colin Kaepernick and his message.
On Saturday, 100 current and former members of the NYPD rallied in support of Kaepernick. The crowd of mostly Black law enforcement acknowledged that there is a huge problem with policing in the United States.
"As members of law enforcement, we can confirm that the issues that [Colin Kaepernick] is saying exist in policing and throughout the criminal justice system, indeed exist," said one member of the NYPD, while wearing and #ImWithKap t-shirt.
Those present at the press conference also sang the "Black National Anthem" in further support of Kaepernick and his message.
“I am here to support anyone who has the courage to stand up against injustice and oppression anywhere in this country and the world,” said NYPD whistleblower Frank Serpico.
Comparing @Kaepernick7 2 #MuhammadAli who was criticized &ostracized, @JumaaneWilliams said "we want Colin 2smell his roses now" #ImWithKap pic.twitter.com/NlkYtFSbr1
— Justice League NYC (@NYjusticeleague) August 19, 2017
#ImWithKap #NoKaepernickNoNFL pic.twitter.com/bEihnCyr5A
— Justice League NYC (@NYjusticeleague) August 19, 2017
Members of #nyc law enforcement joined @JumaaneWilliams in #Brooklyn today to send this message about @Kaepernick7. Take a listen. pic.twitter.com/TISZomWexv
— Spectrum News NY1 (@NY1) August 19, 2017
My NYPD friends who held a press conference for Colin Kaepernick and against police brutality today are getting death threats
— Shaun King (@ShaunKing) August 19, 2017
Think on that