Beyonce Presents Colin Kaepernick With Sports Illustrated's Muhammad Ali Award

In a scene that seemed to be ripped straight out of the dreams of liberal activists everywhere, on Tuesday night, Beyonce made a special appearance to award Colin Kaepernick the Sports Illustrated Muhammad Ali Legacy Award.

Beyonce, who was reportedly brought on stage by comedian Trevor Noah, thanked Kaepernick for his “selfless heart” and the “conviction” he showed by kneeling during the national anthem. Beyonce also took the opportunity to claim that people view Kaepernick as anti-American because, apparently, some believe that racism is inherently American:

It’s been said that racism is so American, that when we protest racism, some assume we are protesting America. So, let’s be very clear. Colin has always been very respectful of the individuals who selfless serve and protect our country and our communities and our families. His message is solely focused on social injustice for historically disenfranchised people. Let’s not get that mistaken.

Perhaps the view that Kaepernick is anti-American doesn’t have to do with the idea that racism is America’s original sin, but the fact that he is protesting the national anthem.

When accepting the award, Kaepernick said, “I accept this award not for myself, but on behalf of the people. Because if it were not for my love for the people, I would not have protested. And if it was not for the support from the people, I would not be on this stage today. With or without the NFL’s platform, I will continue to work for the people because my platform is the people.”

During his remarks, Kaepernick also said he uses his platform to criticize the “anti-blackess in America.” He claimed America is not “living up” to what it “professes to be.”

While Kaepernick has become a symbolic figure, especially for the Black Lives Matter movement, Beyonce has also become increasing political in recent years. For instance, Beyonce paid tribute to Black Lives Matter during her Super Bowl performance.