Colin Kaepernick speaks out about resisting oppression in rare public appearance

Even though he continues to be passed by NFL teams in desperate need of a competent, functioning quarterback, Colin Kaepernick is still making waves, this time by making a rare public appearance at an ACLU dinner.

Kaep made a brief statement about standing up for the rights of those who are being oppressed while being honored at the ACLU of Southern California's Bill of Rights dinner on Sunday, where he received the Eason Monroe Courageous Advocate Award.

At the beginning of his brief acceptance speech, Kaepernick thanked the ACLU for "the unrelenting and unwavering work" in the "fight for social justice."

He continued in a short speech:

"We must confront systemic oppression as a doctor would a disease. You identify it, you call it out, you treat it, and you defeat it. We all have an obligation no matter the risk, and regardless of reward, to stand up for our fellow men and women who are being oppressed with the understanding that human rights cannot be compromised. In the words of Frederick Douglas, if there is no struggle, there is no progress. Thank you."

It's one of the few public statements Kaepernick has made even as the recognition for his role in originating NFL anthem protests, which have made big headlines this season even as Kapernick remains unsigned, continue to come in.

GQ Magazine recently recognized Kaepernick with one of its "Citizens of the Year" award while Sports Illustrated gave him its Muhammad Ali Legacy Award.

Kaepernick is also on Time's shortlist for its "Person of the Year" award, which will be revealed on Wednesday.