The post on the right is a tribute video Kobe Bryant on his Birthday in late August. Kobe Bryant died in January in a helicopter crash and it shocked the sports world. People around the world were devastated, but not just because who he was and his basketball reputation as one of the greats. Kobe was driven to be a better player, person, father and role model. He helped so many people find greatness in themselves in such a short life. Kobe had his own shoe deal with Nike. Nike has been in the forefront of trying to continue Kobe’s message about finding a purpose and striving for greatness. With the athletes Nike endorses it’s obvious they want to be about more than just their clothes and the swoosh.
The post on the left is of Caster Semenya, she is from South Africa and an Olympic track athlete. She has a rare genetic condition where it has leveled her testosterone levels far above a normal female’s levels. Because of this the World Athletics and Swiss Supreme Court ruled that she is not allowed to defend her 800 meter title. World Athletics knows what they’re doing is discriminatory, but says they need to have a level playing field for women’s events. Nike posted this to show their support for this athlete and bring to light of the choice she’s making about her life. She’s comfortable about who she is and is changing nothing despite all the scrutiny. Nike has always been public about social issues in our world and has used their platform to bring awareness and been about human rights.
