By: Jeremiah Holloway (’22), Staff Writer
Most of us know about Colin Kaepernick’s “Dream Crazy” campaign with Nike, but what does that mean for both parties?
The ultimate message of the commercial was to encourage the youth to work hard and achieve success beyond their dreams despite the disapproval of others.
Kaepernick over the last two years has been notorious for his bold decision to kneel during the national anthem of NFL games to bring attention to the growing issue of police brutality, a practice that has since been banned by the NFL.
It is noteworthy that a $132 billion company chose to partner with him. While the ad does not directly correlate with Kaepernick’s infamous protests, it offered him a platform in which he could inspire the public.
I asked myself several questions about this deal: Was this simply a calculated business move by Nike? Was this just a clout chase to appeal to younger audiences? Most importantly, will this actually benefit Kaepernick?
It is safe to say Nike cashed in with this commercial, as their stock reached an all-time high $83.47. Their risk definitely paid off.
Sure, Nike is a business and must be wise in their partnerships. It is understandable that they would want to ensure financial stability (which, they did). However, is it not plausible that Nike sought out a specific target audience to do so?
Nike’s selection of Kaepernick has garnered a variety of reactions with more support than opposition. Support generally came from younger audiences, as those aged between 18-34 were in support of the ad 67% to 21%. Those older than 65, however, expressed much less support with 46% to 39% disapproving the ad.
Upon watching the ad, it is seen that many children are used to represent the idea of one following their passions, proceeding to show modern superstars such as Serena Williams and LeBron James to represent the potential they could reach. As children tend to aspire to be like their favorite athletes, Nike would inevitably choose to pair the youth with Kaepernick.
While the kids have a new source of inspiration, what’s ultimately in it for Colin?
I believe this platform serves to be beneficial for Kaepernick, as it may foreshadow an opportunity for a roster spot in the future. Recently, the first player to kneel alongside Kaepernick, safety Eric Reid, returned to the NFL as a member of the Carolina Panthers. As Kaepernick serves as the model for anthem protests, it is a promising sign that one of his disciples managed to find employment after being ostracized by the league. Support from a multi-million dollar company isn’t bad either.
Beyond the aspect of business, his original goal of seeing justice in America may also be coming to fruition, as indicated by the guilty verdict in the murder of LaQuan McDonald.
Given the attention he has garnered over the last two years, Kaepernick’s protests have become opportunities for others to become successful, as he awaits another NFL opportunity.
