Colin Kaepernick On Critics Who Call Him ‘Un-American’

Since coming out to defend the civil liberties of black and brown Americans through protesting the national anthem, Colin Kaepernick has been vocal on the changes everyone should make to ensure peace and justice. He also managed to shut down his critics over the weekend with a clear statement on critics who have called him “un-American” for his efforts.

Speaking at the post-game press conference against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, the 28-year-old said he’s just as American as his critics. “I don’t understand what’s more American than fighting for liberty and justice for everybody, for the equality this country says it stands for,” he said. “To me, I see it as very patriotic and American to uphold the United States to the standards it says it lives by. That’s something that needs to be addressed.” After he was named a starting player on Sunday (45-16) the player was subjected to taunts from Bills fans with t-shirts and other “accessories.” Kaepernick seemed to be unbothered by the critics.

Shirts with a rifle scope trained on Colin Kaepernick selling for $10 outside of Ralph Wilson stadium. pic.twitter.com/bSuxF3G5qq

— robertklemko (@RobertKlemko) October 16, 2016

“I had some Bills fans before the game come up and say they support me,” he said. “It all depends who the person is. At the end of the day, I’m going to continue to fight what I’m fighting for.” Sporting a t-shirt with Muhammad Ali on it, the player says he couldn’t let the icon “die in vain.”

Overall, the 49ners have struggled on the field following their fifth straight loss. The player reportedly restructured his contract for free agent eligibility after this season.