Photo Credit: Getty Images – Slaven Vlasic
On Nov. 5 , Sports Illustrated held their annual “Sportsperson of the Year Show” at the Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn, New York. Last week, sports fans were informed that former 49ers quarter back Colin Kaepernick would be receiving the “Muhammad Ali Legacy” award.
The award is given to an athlete who uses their platform to spark change in the world. While we were all aware that he would be receiving the award, we were surprised to find out that Beyonce would be the one to present it.
Queen Bey handed the athlete turned activist the plaque and thanked him for his “selfless heart and conviction.”
She then added, “Thank you for your personal sacrifice. Colin took action with no fear of consequence or repercussion–only hope to change the world for the better. To change perception. To change the way we treat each other–especially people of color. We’re still waiting for the world to catch up. It’s been said that racism is so American that when we protest racism, some assume we’re protesting America.”
The award show airs this Friday, Dec. 8th on NBC Sports Network, but fans in attendance captured the moment and posted it to social media.
Check it out:
Beyoncé presents Colin Kaepernick with the Muhammad Ali Legacy Award at the Sports Illustrated Awards tonight! pic.twitter.com/U9J4gwmGdA
— Philip Lewis (@Phil_Lewis_) December 6, 2017
Beyonce is only one many of music artists that have shown Kaepernick support. Others include her husband JAY-Z, Chance the Rapper, Cardi B and Meek Mill.