Black Footwear Forum in Detroit Features Colin Kaepernick and Industry Leaders
The 2026 Black Footwear Forum returned to Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design in Detroit with the theme Rooted in CommUNITY. Colin Kaepernick and Jemele Hill discussed his book The Perilous Fight and his view that athletes should not have to choose between a football career and community activism. Other sessions included James Whitner, Dominique Debnam and Dr. D’Wayne Edwards.
The 2026 Black Footwear Forum took place at Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design in Detroit. Over two days, its Rooted in CommUNITY theme framed panels that brought fashion figures together with students. The closing conversation paired Colin Kaepernick and Jemele Hill, launching Kaepernick’s book tour for The Perilous Fight.
Kaepernick reflected on his NFL protest a decade earlier and described a young football player at a Las Vegas Know Your Rights camp asking whether to pursue the sport or community activism. Other speakers included James Whitner, Dominique Debnam, and Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, who discussed retail’s role in communities and experiences beyond products.
The forum could broaden public conversation about athlete activism and community-centered fashion. Students and emerging designers may see examples of industry leaders linking retail to local presence. Kaepernick’s remarks could resonate with athletes who feel pressure to choose between career and advocacy. Brands may face greater expectations to show sustained community commitment, though actual impact will depend on whether discussions lead to hiring, mentorship, and long-term partnerships.