Nike Cancels 4th Of July Shoe After Colin Kaepernick Raises Racial Concerns

Nike and Colin Kaepernick are once again in the spotlight, but rather than it be about their “Just Do It” campaign, it’s about a shoe that’s sparking controversy.

Nike is pulling an American flag-themed shoe from circulation after former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick reportedly expressed his concern to the company about the sneaker.

The flag is historically titled the “Betsy Ross Flag” and features 13 stars in a circle, which many feel represents America during a time when slavery was in full force. It’s also a flag that hate groups like the Ku Klux Klan have historically paraded alongside the Confederate flag. (Know your history.. not just HIStory)

Nike spokesman Mark Rhodes released a statement on Monday, stating:

“Nike has chosen not to release the Air Max 1 Quick Strike Fourth of July as it featured an old version of the American flag.” The company did not confirm it was Kaepenick’s influence that ultimately had the shoe yanked.

Last week, Nike began quietly recalling the shoes from stores after social media began buzzing about the controversial shoe. Conservatives and racists alike have been outraged at the shoe recall, which is odd considering many already burned their Nike apparel after the company collaborated with Kaep for their “Just Do It” campaign.