There has been extensive debate about Colin Kaepernick’s decision to sit (and later kneel) during the National Anthem. Some have critiqued it saying he should follow in the path of Martin Luther King, Jr. However, there have been some misconceptions about the thoughts and philosophies of MLK, and particularly how they apply to Colin Kaepernick’s non-violent protest.
Exavier Pope put together some thoughts on it by pulling excerpts from MLK’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail.” It’s a fascinating look at another angle. This is a very complex situation, and it has been difficult at times to figure out what to make of everything. I think this whole string is worth a read, so I thought I would drop all of them in here. It is well worth a read.
First, startling reasonable dissent must be explained, when more effort could be used on actual work. #MLKonKaep pic.twitter.com/qpYQ8kOJzQ
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
Second on qualification to speak. Professionally as a visible figure as a POC who sees injustice. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/95eUw9kgJg
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
3. Why Colin Kaepernick's form of protest is appropriate in that they stir discomfort. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/L7R4fO8jLO
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
4. For the Dab Swinney's of the world with dangerous logic. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/dWsGdoFJYp
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
5. The criticism of Colin Kaepernick's protest as stirring "division." #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/EqizjiblVH
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
6. For the Jerry Rices, Ray Lewises, Lil Waynes, BUT, also the also the Hoteps on Colin Kaeoernick. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/WsFaOX8g4n
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
7. The bemoaning fires in Ferguson and looting in Baltimore but then diss Colin's peaceful protest. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/QsNWM3bkJD
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
8. The @kendricklamar "Mortal Man" and Tupac Shakur theory on Colin Kaepernick rooted in MLK first. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/xMDbyjXqpq
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
9. To the reverend who said those not standing for the national anthem before games should be shot. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/RK1qKXPCV7
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
10. To the police union that threatened not to work 49ers game due to Colin Kaepernick's protest. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/bveuuQaUn8
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
11. Finally Colin Kaepernick focusing on next steps and not being about just him. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/ppNewN7BMC
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
Why did I start that string? Tired of people lying & hijacking King's legacy like he was a pushover. Plus, he was a prophet as well as hero
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016
I now hereby tweet a kitten for those who feel uncomfortable. #MLKonKap pic.twitter.com/zhGp17R3Cg
— Exavier Pope (@exavierpope) September 14, 2016