When most people chose to pledge allegiance, he exercised his right to kneel. J.Cole said “he sacrificed his dream,” while calling attention to the protest which condemned the skilled quarterback in the eyes of NFL owners.
GQ Magazine celebrated Colin Kaepernick by naming him their Citizen of the Year, for his efforts in bringing racial and social injustices to forefront.
Rewarded with a photoshoot, he had a specific request. He would only wear clothes made by women, or designers of color.
In a recent interview with Refinary29, his stylist Rachel Johnson provided reasons for his particular style choice:
“He wanted to wear designers of color and/or designers who were women. He wanted to give an opportunity for designers to be featured in the magazine who wouldn’t normally be, especially for a cover shoot of this magnitude.”
The quarterback turned activist is truly committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The blazer featured on the cover was designed by Harlem natives, Guy and Shay Wood. The husband and wife own Harlem Haberdashery, which is based in the namesake neighborhood.
Kaepernick also sported a custom “Even More Names” shirt based on his synonymous statement, “They Have Names” back in 2015. The shirt was designed by Kerby Jean-Raymond of menswear label Pyer Moss.
Rachel Johnson is pleased with the outcome. It is also pleasing to see a black man be celebrated for standing up for other black man.
“It was amazing how it all came together. It feels surreal. I’m proud of how it’s being received. I’m thrilled we were able to feature designers who would have never gotten this look before.”
Kaepernick continues standing firm against injustice and inequality. Embracing his blackness completely, he is supporting black business as well as female designers.
He may have sacrificed his NFL dream or at least put them on hold, but he is a champion in the eyes of his people.
