Having covered the topics of race/ethnicity and religion in sport over the last two weeks, I'd like for you to identify a recent sport-related story that involves one (or both) of these subjects, and address the following items:
- Citing multiple examples (i.e., print stories, news videos, etc.), explain how the media are covering the story. Are there any recurrent themes or frames that are used? • What concepts that we discussed (either through the readings or in-class discussion) are prevalent in this story (e.g., cultivation, stacking, protestant ethic, etc.)? • Are there any critical claims to be made from this story? What are they?
Title: Media Coverage of Colin Kaepernick’s Protest in the NFL
Introduction:
One recent sport-related story that involves both race/ethnicity and religion is the protest by former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick. This essay will analyze how the media have covered Kaepernick’s protest, identify recurring themes or frames in their coverage, and discuss the concepts prevalent in this story from our readings and class discussions. Furthermore, critical claims arising from this story will be addressed.
Media Coverage of Colin Kaepernick’s Protest:
Print Stories:
Various newspapers and online platforms have covered Kaepernick’s protest, including The New York Times, The Washington Post, ESPN, and Bleacher Report.
These articles generally provide a factual account of Kaepernick’s initial decision to kneel during the national anthem as a form of protest against racial injustice and police brutality.
Recurrent themes in the coverage include debates around patriotism, freedom of expression, and the intersection of sports and social activism.
News Videos:
News channels such as CNN, Fox News, and NBC have extensively covered Kaepernick’s protest through televised discussions, interviews, and analysis segments.
The media often frame the protest as controversial, highlighting both support and criticism from players, coaches, politicians, and the general public.
Recurring frames include discussions on the impact on team dynamics, backlash from fans, and the role of athletes in activism.
Concepts Prevalent in this Story:
Cultivation:
The media coverage of Kaepernick’s protest can contribute to cultivation theory, which suggests that prolonged exposure to certain messages can shape viewers’ perception of reality.
Media portrayals of Kaepernick’s protest as unpatriotic or disrespectful may influence public opinion on the matter.
Stacking:
Stacking, which refers to the underrepresentation or overrepresentation of certain racial or ethnic groups in specific positions within sports, is not directly applicable to this story.
However, discussions on race and ethnicity are central to Kaepernick’s protest, as he uses his platform to bring attention to systemic racial issues in society.
Critical Claims from this Story:
Freedom of Expression:
One critical claim arising from this story is that Kaepernick’s protest is protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution.
Critics argue that the media’s focus on the method of protest (kneeling during the anthem) rather than the message detracts from the larger issues he seeks to address.
Power Dynamics in Sports:
Another critical claim is that Kaepernick’s protest highlights power imbalances within the sports industry.
By taking a stand against racial injustice, he challenges the traditionally apolitical nature of sports and calls for greater accountability from institutions and team owners.
Conclusion:
The media coverage of Colin Kaepernick’s protest demonstrates a variety of frames and recurrent themes. Print stories provide factual accounts of his actions, while news videos feature debates on patriotism and activism. Concepts such as cultivation theory and power dynamics in sports are prevalent in this story. Critical claims arising from this story include discussions on freedom of expression and power imbalances within the sports industry. Understanding these elements is crucial to engaging with the complexities surrounding Kaepernick’s protest and its broader implications for sport and society.