Beyonce’s surprise presentation at the 2017 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year Awards in honor of Colin Kaepenrick certainly stole the show, but Kaepernick himself also used his big moment of the night to shine a spotlight on a few other very deserving people.
The former NFL star and groundbreaking activist was met with a standing ovation when he took to the stage at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY to accept the Muhammad Ali Legacy Award from Queen Bey, giving an acceptance speech that shot straight to the hearts of the nation. Each year, Sports Illustrated gives the award to an athlete who has used their platform to directly or indirectly impact the world, but on December 5, Kaepernick ended his moment of recognition by reminding the world of several Black women who lost their lives after being unjustly targeted by police officers.
“Lastly, I want to say rest in power to Charleena Lyles, Sandra Bland, Tanisha Anderson, Yvette Smith, Miriam Carey, Rekia Boyd, Aiyana Stanley-Jones, Kathryn Johnston and all of the countless victims of fatal forms of being policed while Black in America,” he said in closing. “Thank you.”
Kaeprnick also thanked his parents, girlfriend Nessa Diab, former teammate Eric Reed and several other indiviuals and groups who have supported him since the beginning of the movement.
To see this unforgettable moment in its’ entirety, tune into the 2017 SI Sportsperson of the Year Show, airing on NBCSN and Univision Deportes Network at 8 p.m. ET December 8th.