National Felon League Day

Group of people wearing black and white striped outfits, handcuffs as fashion accessories, urban graffiti backdrop.. — National felon league day illustration

Get ready to cheer on your favorite lawbreakers, because today is National Felon League Day!

When is Felon League Day?

It's national felon league day on the 26th September.

The Origin of National Felon League Day

While the name might suggest a celebration of criminal behavior, National Felon League Day actually has a rather innocent origin. It all started as a playful pun on the popular football league, the National Football League (NFL).

Every year, on September 26th, fans of the NFL come together to celebrate a day dedicated to the not-so-law-abiding players of the sport. It's a lighthearted way to show support for those players who may have had some run-ins with the law but have still managed to make a name for themselves on the field.

History behind the term 'Felon League'

2017

Introduction of the NFL kneeling protests

In 2017, the term 'felon league' gained popularity in the United States in response to the kneeling protests that started in the National Football League (NFL). These protests were initiated by Colin Kaepernick, a former NFL quarterback, who knelt during the national anthem to raise awareness about racial inequality and police brutality.

2017

Consolidation of 'felon league' as a derogatory term

The term 'felon league' gained traction, especially on social media platforms, as critics used it to negatively describe the NFL and its players involved in the protests. The term aimed to portray the players as criminals or disrespectful individuals, while overlooking the underlying message of the protests.

2017

Political polarity and media coverage

As the term 'felon league' spread, it became deeply connected to the sharp divide in American politics and media narratives. Supporters of the protests condemned the term as a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the players' intentions, while those critical of the protests embraced it as a way to express their opposition to the perceived disrespect of the flag and the national anthem.

2018

Impact on player activism and public discourse

The use of the term 'felon league' sparked a wider conversation about the role of athletes in social activism and prompted discussions about free speech, patriotism, and racial inequality. While some people still used the term to belittle or dismiss the players' actions, others recognized the importance of their platform and began engaging in more nuanced discussions.

Present

Continued cultural reflection

The term 'felon league' continues to be a reminder of the power of language and its impact on public discourse. It serves as a cautionary example of the potential consequences of labeling and demonizing individuals who are peacefully protesting for social change. The ongoing dialogue surrounding athlete activism and the NFL kneeling protests has contributed to a broader understanding of systemic racism and the need for societal progress.