Football players often take a knee when someone suffers a severe injury on the field. An enduring expression of empathy amidst the combative intensity of the game. 

Colin Kaepernick took a knee during the National Anthem in solidarity with African American victims of police brutality. His call for empathy was met with angry vitriol from a polarized society. His message co-opted by powerful interests to serve their own agendas. 

But his call for social justice endures through the iconic image of taking a knee - a solemn testament to the injury of those denied the equal humanity which lies at the core of America’s ideals.