Delmarva reacts to controversial Nike ad featuring Colin Kaepernick

SALISBURY, Md – “I think it’s a disgrace,” said Salisbury resident Randy Mosley.

“If I was in the NFL I would be kneeling still,” said another resident Peyton Warren.

“I’m pretty much neutral,” said another Lance Marshall.

A recent Nike advertisement is generating a lot of mixed emotions. On Thursday night Colin Kaepernick will officially, in front of a national audience, become the undeniable face of the the company’s Just Do it Campaign. And yes that means that lines are being drawn and it’s largely because the former NFL quarterback was the first to take a knee during the National Anthem, an action he took to protest police brutality and racial injustice.

“We all need to pause, slow down, and take a look at what he’s trying to say and what he’s standing up for or kneeling for, black lives do matter,” said Salisbury resident Heather Collins.

The company used a picture of Kaepernick with a quote saying ‘Believe in something.Even if it means sacrificing everything.’ Referring to the fact that Kaepernick hasn’t played in the NFL since 2016, when he first began kneeling during the Star Spangled Banner.

“When they get kneel down on their knees, and won’t put their hand across their chest, they shouldn’t be allowed to play,” said Mosley

“He can’t play, but he still believes in what he believes in so therefore he’s standing for something and I’ve got his back 100%,” said Warren.

Since Nike’s announcement some people have decided to boycott the company altogether some going as far as burning their Nike merchandise.

“I won’t wear Nike hats no more, because of what he stands for, if Nike’s going to allow this then nobody needs to be buying Nike stuff period,” said Mosley.

While others feel a little differently.

“I can’t say I’m not going to buy their stuff, but I think that’s just a sales pitch too for the wrong cause too,” said resident Lance Marshall.

Many people are supporting Nike’s decision and say they’ll support the brand and Kaepernick no matter what.

“I think that everybody should just chill out, he’s doing this for a good cause, Nike wouldn’t have done it for anything,” said Devin Lake.

And of course We want to hear what you think about the whole situation. Tell us on 47 ABC’s Facebook or twitter right now!