The United States is marking the 10th anniversary of Colin Kaepernick's decision to kneel during the national anthem. This act led to his exile from the NFL, and its consequences are still being felt. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.

On September 1, 2016, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick knelt during the national anthem before a preseason game against the San Diego Chargers in San Diego. The gesture was a protest against police violence toward Black people. Later, on October 2, 2016, in Santa Clara, during a game against the Dallas Cowboys, outside linebacker Eli Harold and safety Eric Reid joined Kaepernick in kneeling.

Kaepernick's action sparked significant controversy in the NFL, and after his contract expired, teams did not sign him. He has not played in the NFL since 2017. On November 16, 2019, in Riverdale, Georgia, Kaepernick held a workout for NFL scouts and media, but no team offered him a contract.

On July 24, 2026, at the ACLU's 2026 Biennial Leadership Conference in Washington, Kaepernick received the ACLU Ralph Ellison Award for Defenders of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties in the Arts, Business, Science, and Sports. This shows that his influence on public opinion continues.

According to Associated Press, Kaepernick's action still influences discussions in sports and social justice. His kneel became an example for other athletes expressing protest. However, Kaepernick himself was unable to return to the NFL, which was a major blow to his career.

Kaepernick's story is now seen as a symbol of social activism and civic stance in sports. His action resonated not only on the football field but also in social justice movements worldwide.

Associated Press recalls this event and analyzes the impact of Kaepernick's action on sports and society a decade later. This analysis shows the long-term consequences of his actions.

Kaepernick's kneel also influenced the NFL's national anthem policy. In 2018, the league considered fining players who knelt during the anthem, but later backed away from that decision. This issue is still debated in the NFL.

The Associated Press article emphasizes the historical significance of Kaepernick's action. It caused a huge resonance not only in sports but also in society as a whole. Kaepernick's name has become a symbol of the fight for social justice today.

In conclusion, the 10th anniversary of Colin Kaepernick's kneel reminds us of the importance of his action. This event highlights complex issues at the intersection of sports and politics. Although Kaepernick's career was interrupted, his influence continues.