New York

Colin Kaepernick Visits Rikers Island, Drawing Criticism From Jail Union

Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem last season to protest racial inequality and police brutality.

What to Know

  • Ex-49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick, an advocate for racial equality and protester of police brutality, visited Rikers Island Tuesday
  • The president of the union representing correction officers said the visit will only encourage inmates to attack jail guards
  • A Correction Department spokesman says the purpose of Kaepernick's visit was to "share a message of hope and inspiration"

A visit by Colin Kaepernick to the Rikers Island jail facility has drawn a rebuke from the union that represents city correction officers.

The president of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association told the Daily News that the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback's presence at Rikers on Tuesday will only encourage inmates to attack jail guards.

Union leaders noted that Kaepernick has worn socks that depicted police as little cartoon pigs.

Correction Department spokesman Peter Thorne said the purpose of Kaeperick's visit was to "share a message of hope and inspiration."

Kaepernick began kneeling during the national anthem last season to protest racial inequality and police brutality.

The demonstration sparked a wave of protests by NFL players during the anthem that have been repeatedly denounced by President Donald Trump.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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