Our National Anthem.

The pledge of allegiance. 

The Flag of the United States of America.

Are we all granted the freedom, liberty and justice shared in those verses or conveyed in the flying of the flag?

For many in this country the answer has continued to be NO for far too long.

We needed someone to shake us out of our complacency again and force us to think and act.

Colin Kapernick, through a simple act of reverence and an obvious deep sense of conviction, has inspired millions of people, not only in our country, but around the world to think and act boldly and to affect change for racial justice.

Without eloquent words uttered from a podium, he has spoken to me and others in a way that we can not misunderstand or ignore.

With one exception, the Presidential Medal of Freedom has honored those who have been moving and positive forces in our society.

I can imagine none more deserving of the distinction and honor that the Presidential Medal of Freedom represents, than Mr. Kapernick.