Nike recently decided to put off their plans on selling shoes decorated with an early version of the American Flag. The decision came after athlete-turned-activist Colin Kaepernick, reached out to the company this week.
The former NFL star explained to the officials that the “Betsy Ross” version of the flag has been associated with slavery and racism. The design has also been used as a symbol for white extremist groups such as the Ku Klux Klan.
The Air Max 1 Quick Strike Fourth of July shoe was intended to commemorate the upcoming holiday, featuring the flag with a design of thirteen stars in a circle.
The choice has since caused outrage amongst anti-Kaepernick individuals. This includes the Governor of Arizona, who has since renounced his support for a planned Nike factory in the state.
Nike has defended their decision, however, stating “We regularly make business decisions to withdraw initiatives, products, and services. NIKE made the decision to halt distribution of the Air Max 1 Quick Strike Fourth of July based on concerns that it could unintentionally offend and detract from the nation’s patriotic holiday.”
Kaepernick has been sponsored by the company since 2011. Last year, he was featured as the face of their highly successful “Just Do it” campaign.
Nia Primus
