Colin Kaepernick’s rationale for abstaining from voting in the 2016 U.S. general election will enlighten, or perhaps frighten, those who bother to listen to him.
The San Francisco 49ers quarterback said Sunday he didn’t vote because it would have been “hypocritical” to do so in light of his ongoing protest against oppression of minority communities in the United States, according to NBC Bay Area’s Matt Maiocco.
“I think it would be hypocritical of me to vote,” Kaepernick said following the 49ers’ loss to the Arizona Cardinals. “I’d said from the beginning I was against oppression, I was against a system of oppression. I’m not going to show support for that system. And, to me, the oppressor isn’t going to allow you to vote your way out of your oppression.”
Kaepernick has been sitting or kneeling before 49ers games during the playing of the “Star Spangled Banner.” In doing so, he has become one of the most prominent and outspoken athletes on social issues as well as a target for fierce criticism.
Although Kaepernick had denounced both Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton months before the election, his decision not to vote surprised and angered many.
Kaepernick’s explanation undoubtedly will have the same effect on some, while others will better understand his stance and message.
Thumbnail photo via Matt Kartozian/USA TODAY Sports Images
