On Tuesday night, activist and professional football player Colin Kaepernick was presented with the Sports Illustrated Muhammad Ali Legacy Award, and the person to present that prestigious award to him was none other than superstar Beyoncé, who made a surprise appearance to praise Kaepernick for his accomplishments.
Beyoncé thanked Kaepernick for his “selfless heart” in taking a knee against racial injustice and police brutality, which in turn sparked a national movement.
“Colin took action with no fear of consequence or repercussion, only hope to change the world for the better; to change perception; to change the way we treat each other, especially people of color,” Beyoncé said. “We’re still waiting for the world to catch up.”
Kaepernick, a talented quarterback, remains unsigned by an NFL team more than a year after he began taking a knee during the playing of the national anthem before games.
Queen Yoncé also took some time out of her day to address all the critics who attempt to derail the movement by claiming that protesting during the anthem is disrespectful to the flag and the military.
“It’s been said that racism is so American that when we protest racism, some assume we’re protesting America. So let’s be very clear,” she said. “Colin has always been very respectful of the individuals who selflessly serve and protect our country and our communities and our families. His message is solely focused on social injustice for historically disenfranchised people. Let’s not get that mistaken.”
Let’s. Not. Get. That. Mistaken.
Kaepernick accepted the award like a true champ, embodying Ali’s legacy.
“I accept this award knowing that the legacy of Muhammad Ali is that of a champion of the people,” he said. “I accept this award not for myself but on behalf of the people, because if it were not for my love of the people, I would not have protested. And if it was not for the support from the people, I would not be on this stage today.”
Of course, because black people can’t be proud and prosper for one gatdamn minute without attracting the haters, like moths to a flame, Fox News contributor Tomi Lahren attempted to come for the Queen Mother (Beyoncé) and Kaepernick with her usual foul rhetoric.
Cue the whole of Twitter:
It really did not go well. I don’t know who told Lahren she could try to come for these two icons without being dragged to hell, but she was about to learn, since the response was swift and harsh.