Yes, we've all heard about it about by now, the NIKE ad featuring Colin Kaepernick which is pictured below. There has been a flood of reaction on social media from those stating he hasn't sacrificed anything and boycotting to those applauding the move made by NIKE and Kaepernick. Unfortunately, the ongoing debate about this has not been so kind, and shows just how deep the divide in our nation is.
Believe it or not though there are is a positive that we can pull out of this. Yes, the divide in this country is as deep as it has been in quite a long time, but it also makes me proud to live in the country I do where all of us can exchange our ideas and opinions freely. The only problem that arises here is that some cannot seem to have disagreement without being nasty towards the other side. Being able to exchange opinions freely and being able to discuss those opinions in a civil manner despite disagreement is what makes for a good and productive conversation. What we have seen in recent days between both sides on this issue is frankly quite disturbing. Yes, this issue is worthy of debate, no question about it. Is it worth so much time and energy though that we need to be nasty towards each other about it? No it is not. With social media, we have a bigger platform than ever before that allows us to be able to reach any and everyone. Thus, being able to discuss our opinions with any and everyone. We ought to use this platform to discuss our ideas in a civil manner. Doing so, we'll get a lot more accomplished. Not just with this specific issue, but more importantly within our political discourse. If the fallout from this advertisement has shown us anything it is that we as a country have so much to work on.
Image pulled from Colin Kaepernick's official Twitter page. All credit goes to NIKE for the image. https://twitter.com/Kaepernick7/status/1036695513251434498
