Former 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People, as revealed in the issue’s release on Thursday.
Broken up into five separate groupings, Kaepernick, who made national headlines this season for his decision to not stand for the National Anthem as a means of protesting racial inequality, is included in the “Icons” group, and is one of three athletes in that group along with gymnast Simone Biles and soccer player Neymar.
Most interestingly, perhaps, is that Kaepernick’s former head coach and current coach of the Michigan Wolverines, Jim Harbaugh, wrote the quarterback’s testimonial for the issue, after initially being critical of the manner of Kaepernick’s protest early last season. Harbaugh now says he believes Kaepernick should be celebrated for his stance.
“Colin Kaepernick was alone in his early protests last year when he boldly and courageously confronted perceived inequalities in our social-justice system by refusing to stand for the national anthem,” writes Harbaugh. “At times in our nation’s history, we have been all too quick to judge and oppose our fellow Americans for exercising their First Amendment right to address things they believe unjust.
“Rather than besmirch their character, we must celebrate their act. For we cannot pioneer and invent if we are fearful of deviating from the norm, damaging our public perception or—most important—harming our own personal interests.
“I thank Colin for all he has contributed to the game of football as an outstanding player and trusted teammate. I also applaud Colin for the courage he has demonstrated in exercising his guaranteed right of free speech. His willingness to take a position at personal cost is now part of our American story.
“How lucky for us all and for our country to have among our citizens someone as remarkable as Colin Kaepernick.”
Harbaugh coached Kaepernick from 2011-2014, with the six-year QB playing the best football of his career during that span. Kaepernick remains a free agent after opting out of his contract with the 49ers on March 3.
In addition to his protest, He has contributed $600,000 as part of his Million Dollar Pledge to help a number of diverse community programs.
This is the second time Kaepernick has been featured in the magazine in recent months, as he also made the cover of Time on Oct. 3, 2016 and was pictured kneeling.
