Hundreds Rally In Support Of Colin Kaepernick At NFL's Midtown Headquarters

NEW YORK CITY — Hundreds of people rallied Wednesday night in support of pro quarterback Colin Kaepernick — who sat during the national anthem before games last year to protest police violence — according to reports from the scene.

Protesters gathered in front of the National Football League's Park headquarters, located on Park Avenue between East 51st and 52nd streets, to demand justice for Kaepernick and all people of color ostracized for standing up for their beliefs.

The rally was organized by "The People's Consortium for Human and Civil Rights, Inc., Justice League NYC, faith-based leaders and allies" according to a Facebook event. Spike Lee endorsed the movement weeks ago and the NAACP attended the rally and made shirts depicting Kaepernick's large afro as a black power fist.

"We demand that the NFL protect the rights of their players who speak out on injustice," the NAACP posted on its Twitter page. "Even Colin Kaepernick will tell you that it's not just about Colin Kaepernick. We're here standing for justice for all."

Here are some of the best scenes from the protest:

Kaepernick is currently an NFL free agent after a season in which he tossed 16 touchdowns compared to four interceptions for the lowly San Francisco 49ers. The quarterback has seen his career prospects dwindle after he began protesting the national anthem before games by sitting or taking a knee during the song.

“I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color," Kaepernick told NFL Media in an exclusive interview after a game last year. "To me, this is bigger than football and it would be selfish on my part to look the other way. There are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder."

The protest drew the ire of many fans who interpreted Kaepernick's actions as a sign of disrespect for the U.S. Military. This offseason NFL teams have opted not to offer Kaepernick a contract, although many former and current players and coaches have said that he's talented enough to make a roster.

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