Coppin State University Welcomes Colin Kaepernick for Conversation on The Perilous Fight
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and former NBA All-Star and Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson among special guests for an evening of conversation, culture and community
BALTIMORE – Coppin State University welcomed former NFL quarterback, author and activist Colin Kaepernick to Eagle Nation for a special evening of conversation centered on his new memoir, The Perilous Fight, and the experiences that have shaped his life and work.
Kaepernick was joined in conversation by award-winning media personality and Higher Learning co-host Van Lathan. The event brought together Coppin students, Baltimore-area youth, community leaders and special guests for an evening focused on Kaepernick’s journey, identity, culture, activism and the experiences behind his work.
The program also welcomed Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and former NBA All-Star and former Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson.
The capacity audience reflected Coppin State University’s continuing role as a gathering place where students and the broader Baltimore community can engage with influential voices and explore issues shaping society, culture and their communities.
Published September 15, 2026, The Perilous Fight chronicles Kaepernick’s journey from his childhood in California through his football career and the experiences that ultimately shaped his activism. The memoir explores questions surrounding identity, race, power, sacrifice, and social justice.
Kaepernick is a former San Francisco 49ers quarterback who led the team to Super Bowl XLVII. Beyond football, he has become widely known for his activism and is the founder of the Know Your Rights Camp and Kaepernick Publishing. His work has also included books, media projects, and initiatives focused on social justice and community empowerment.
The Baltimore stop was part of Kaepernick’s national book tour for The Perilous Fight and was hosted in partnership with Urban Reads Bookstore, which supplied books for the event.
For Coppin State, the evening provided another opportunity to connect the University with the city it calls home, bringing students and community members together for conversation, reflection and connection.
The University extends its appreciation to Kaepernick, Lathan, Urban Reads Bookstore, the special guests and members of the Coppin and Baltimore communities who helped make the evening a memorable experience.
