|
 Kaepernick, who sparked a
national debate when he protested against racial
injustice by kneeling https://www.reuters.com/article/us-nfl-kaepernick-sit/nfls-kaepernick-kneels-during-national-anthem-continuing-protest-idUSKCN11806U
as the U.S. national anthem played during a
game, will be publishing across Medium's
platform and sharing thoughts on anti-Black
racism in society, the company said.
Medium allows users, including companies and
media outlets, to post blogs that readers can
annotate.
"I know he will bring valuable insights and
leadership to Medium, especially in this moment
when the world is finally catching up to his
vision on racial justice," Ev Williams, chief
executive of Medium, said in a statement.
"I couldn't be more happy to welcome Colin to
Medium. He's an incisive, independent thinker,
whose integrity has inspired so many. The world
needs more of that."
Kaepernick's protests, aimed at drawing
attention to police brutality against
minorities, began in 2016 when he popularized
the gesture of kneeling during pre-game
renditions of "The Star-Spangled Banner" while a
member of the San Francisco 49ers.
He became a free agent after that season, during
which he went 1-10 as a starter, and has since
been unable to find a team to play for. Many
experts attribute his political activism as the
key reason teams are wary of signing him.
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 The action of kneeling during
the U.S. national anthem had all but disappeared
from the world of sports, but returned recently
following the death last month of George Floyd
at the hands of a white policeman, which sparked
protests across the United States over police
brutality.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said this week he
would encourage teams to sign Kaepernick, adding
the league would also welcome his off-the-field
guidance on social justice.
Kaepernick launched a publishing company in
February which is also part of the partnership
and will help create and feature stories on race
and civil rights in America, and elevate
emerging voices from communities of color.
"I am excited for Kaepernick Publishing to
partner with Medium to continue to elevate black
voices in the news and publishing industry,"
said Kaepernick.
"I also look forward to creating new
opportunities and avenues for black writers and
creators with my new role as a board member."
(Reporting by Frank Pingue in Toronto; Editing
by Bernadette Baum)
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