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Once upon a time, the
raison d'รชtre of US companies was to simply make a buck. Those days are long gone.
Today, corporations are in the business of radicalizing the country by taking sides in cultural standoffs.Just in time for the Fourth of July festivities, which this year celebrates the 243rd anniversary of America's independence, Nike decided to ignite a political firestorm the size of a Chinese fireworks factory, thereby further dividing the nation.
The Fortune 500 tennis shoe maker, with $30 billion in annual global sales, announced it would
cancel the release of its 'Air Max 1' trainers after former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick told the company
"he and others" found the Betsy Ross-era flag that adorned the sneaker
"offensive." Why? Because the symbol was stitched at a time when slavery was still part of the fledgling nation's experience. And since a handful of right-wing 'white supremacist' groups have reportedly been seen waving this flag (as well as former President Barack Obama, incidentally), which celebrates the original 13 US colonies and their successful fight against the British crown, suddenly it is deemed toxic and unworthy of the mighty Nike.
Comment: More background on Robinson: