Colin Kaepernick’s continued efforts to bring attention to police brutality and social injustice are being recognized by an industry leader in the world of sports.
On Thursday, Sports Illustrated announced that Kaepernick has been selected as the 2017 Muhammad Ali Legacy award winner. Executive Editor of Sports Illustrated Steve Cannella explained to USA TODAY Sports why Kaepernick was selected.
“The Muhammad Ali Legacy Award is given to those who make the world a better place,” Steve Cannella, Sports Illustrated executive editor, told USA TODAY Sports. “The fact Colin hasn’t played this year or been on the field doesn’t disqualify him. That fact that he hasn’t played in a game actually shows what he has sacrificed for standing up for what he believes. There will never be another Muhammad Ali, but you can see the echoes of (Ali) in what Colin has done over the last 12 to 15 months.”
In a prepared statement Lonnie Ali, widow of the late Muhammad Ali, explained why Kaepernick was the right choice for the award honoring her late husband.
“I am proud to be able to present this year’s SI Muhammad Ali Legacy Award to Colin Kaepernick for his passionate defense of social justice and civil rights for all people.”
“Like Muhammad, Colin is a man who stands on his convictions with confidence and courage, undaunted by the personal sacrifices he has had to make to have his message heard. He has used his celebrity and philanthropy to benefit some of our most vulnerable community members.”
Kaepernick will be the youngest recipient of the honor. Past winners include Jack Nicklaus, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Jim Brown and Bill Russell.