The initiative works with a group of board-certified forensic pathologists, who perform autopsies and disclose preliminary findings to families.
Kaepernick stated that "we know that the prison industry complex, which also includes police and policing tries to protect and service its interests at any cost." The Autopsy Initiative is an important step in ensuring family members have accurate and forensically verified information regarding the cause of death of their loved ones during their time of need.
This initiative aims to remove concerns about the reliability and objectivity the first autopsy is conducted, the risk that evidence may be manipulated and biases on the part of the coroner/medical examiner, and/or the improper use of forensic procedures.
Nicole Martin, Program Manager for the Autopsy Initiative, stated that she is passionate about the Initiative’s impact and looks forward to helping victims' families who have lost loved ones to police-related deaths.
Dr. Cyril Wecht is the pathology coordinator. He said, "I am extremely excited about this truly unique program. Families of victims will be able to know that any case has been fully analyzed and is ready for use by experienced, independent forensic pathologists.
Kaepernick led the San Francisco 49ers team to the Super Bowl in 2012, . He last played in the NFL in 2016. In 2016, he began kneeling during the national song to protest racial injustice.
Eric Reid, Kaepernick's former teammate, filed collusion grievances against league officials. They claimed they were blacklisted for protests during the national anthem. In 2019, they reached a settlement.
