Nike Selects Colin Kaepernick For New Ad Campaign
Nike has selected Colin Kaepernick for their new “Just Do It” campaign, and stirred up quite a controversy on social media.
The famous athletic brand released the face of their new campaign this past week, which features NFL star Colin Kaepernick. If you don’t remember, Kaepernick was the first athlete to kneel for the national anthem in protest of the way minorities are treated in the United States. Kaepernick has since been kept out of the league due to the protest and is in a current legal battle for his right to play.
Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything. #JustDoIt pic.twitter.com/SRWkMIDdaO
— Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) September 3, 2018
The new campaign has received an outpouring of support from most fans and celebrities, praising Nike for supporting the NFL player.
What will you do today to stand up for what you believe in?
Thank you @Nike & @Kaepernick7 for the extra motivation this morning. #ImWithKap #ImWithNike #Nike pic.twitter.com/iSuauKXuCO— Michael Kelly (@michaeljkellyjr) September 4, 2018
Especially proud to be a part of the Nike family today. #justdoit pic.twitter.com/GAZtkAIwbk
— Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) September 4, 2018
While most feedback of the ad has been positive, some fans have not been as supportive. Criticising the brand for being too political, and even calling for a boycott. Some have even posted videos of them burning or cutting the athletic gear. Despite the controversy, Nike and many others stand behind their decision to use Kaepernick for the new campaign. The ad is just the first in a string of billboards and video ads.
Nike celebrates their 30th anniversary this year.
