Springsteen and Kaepernick Recognized With ACLU Activism Award

WHO:

Billboard - Bruce Springsteen received the ACLU Ralph Ellison Award.

ABC News Entertainment - Colin Kaepernick received a new award from the American Civil Liberties Union.

WHAT:

Newser - Kaepernick stated in his acceptance speech, "We know our civil liberties are under attack, we know humanity is under attack, education is under attack."

Newser - Kaepernick emphasized, "When we look back at this moment, it will not be the speeches that change the direction of history. It's going to be whether we decided: Are we going to build the schools or not? Are we going to defend the rights of others, or are we going to watch? Are we going to build community together, or are we going to stand in isolation?"

Newser - Deborah Archer, the ACLU's president, remarked, "He demonstrated in real time the price America too often exacts from those who challenge racial injustice."

Billboard - Springsteen was honored for his contributions to civil rights and civil liberties in the arts, business, science, and sports.

ABC News Entertainment - The award recognizes contributions to American thought and culture.

WHERE:

Billboard - Springsteen played "Streets of Minneapolis" after receiving the award.

WHEN:

Billboard - The award ceremony took place on July 24.

WHY:

ABC News Entertainment - The award is given for activism in various fields, including arts, business, science, and sports.

HOW:

Newser - The awards ceremony was hosted by actress Laverne Cox.

Billboard - The award is presented by the American Civil Liberties Union.

(UPDATED July 26, 2026 13:21 UTC)

At a recent awards ceremony hosted by actress Laverne Cox, Kaepernick delivered a powerful acceptance speech, stating, "We know our civil liberties are under attack, we know humanity is under attack, education is under attack." He emphasized that the true measure of change will not come from speeches but from our actions, asking, "Are we going to build the schools or not? Are we going to defend the rights of others, or are we going to watch?" Deborah Archer, the ACLU's president, highlighted Kaepernick's impact, noting, "He demonstrated in real time the price America too often exacts from those who challenge racial injustice."

--

(UPDATED July 26, 2026 01:29 UTC)

Bruce Springsteen was honored with the ACLU Ralph Ellison Award for his significant contributions to civil rights and civil liberties across various fields, including the arts and sports. During the award ceremony, which took place on July 24, Springsteen performed "Streets of Minneapolis" to celebrate the occasion. Colin Kaepernick also received a new award from the American Civil Liberties Union, recognizing his impactful activism in American thought and culture.