Nike made a recent decision to pull Betsy Ross edition shoes at the request of Colin Kaepernick, who suggested the shoes are offensive. Kaepernick, who gained notoriety due to his taking a knee during the National Anthem, suggested the 13 star flag pictured on the shoes was a symbol of white supremacy and it’s connection to slavery.
The original American flag, a symbol of white supremacy and slavery is an absolute absurd thought. Buzzfeed tried to make an argument in support of Kaepernick’s claims. The arguments that the flag was found in the home of a white nationalist group member and having been flown beside the Trump campaign flag were the arguments used. This is absolutely absurd and ridiculous.
Other arguments on Twitter revolved around the fact that people were claiming they weren’t free under this flag. The fact is, this flag is a very symbol of freedom from oppression. Even though the flag was created in the late 1770’s, we were not officially recognized as free from Britain until 1783 thanks to the Treaty of Paris.
In the end, Nike caved into the pressures of Colin Kaepernick and insulted anyone who has ever desired or received freedom under the banner of being an American. I’ve discussed many times that I am completely against slavery and many of the ugly things from American history. The fact is it is our history and we must know our history so we can continue to improve.
This flag represents the 13 states who were brave enough to step out and demand freedom from the oppression of England and demand freedom. It’s something that Kaepernick and Nike should be proud of, especially this week as we recognize the declaration of our independence on July 4th.
Nike is already facing backlash of their decision. On Tuesday, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey announced he has instructed the Commerce Authority to remove any tax incentives given to Nike in an effort to attract the company to the state. I applaud this decision by Governor Ducey to take this stand against Nike and hope that others will consider doing the same.
Senator Ted Cruz also spoke out against Nike in a recent tweet mentioning how Nike seems only interested in doing business with those who hate the American flag.
It’s very evident where Nike stands in supporting American values and the American flag. Any company is free to take a stand on the public issues as they wish because we are a free country. Unfortunately, Nike decided to take the stand on the side against our American flag and the freedom it represents. Maybe it’s time American’s stand and tell Nike where we stand on the issue of the flag and freedom, by supporting another brand.
You can contact JD through the Liberty Loft website or by Twitter.
