The NFL faced substantial backlash after its decision to open the season with “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” commonly referred to as the “Black National Anthem,” during the highly anticipated game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys on September 4. This choice sparked a wave of criticism online, with many fans expressing their displeasure about a perceived politicization of football.
Critics quickly took to social media to voice their frustrations. Comments highlighted that playing the anthem was more about division than unity. One commentator succinctly expressed the sentiment: “This ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ black national anthem is a disgrace to the NFL and USA!” Others pointed out the lack of audience engagement, with one fan noting, “As they pan across the crowd, you notice that no one gives a s***.” This disconnection between the anthem and the fans present was palpable.
Compounding the negative reception was the audio disaster that marred the performance. Viewers reported major issues with sound quality, leading some to call for accountability, with one user stating, “The person responsible for the sound mix on this ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ should be fired.” This criticism extended beyond the technical failures to the judgment of those making the decisions at the NFL.
Laurin Talese, the singer of the anthem, had expressed her excitement at being part of the event. She noted, “I’m feeling so excited and honored,” and shared her enthusiasm for connecting with fans. Despite her positive attitude, the public reception was anything but warm. Many took her performance as just another example of the NFL’s awkward attempts to navigate the intersection of sports and social issues.
A humorous comment captured the irony of the moment: “They got whites singing Lift Every Voice and Sing? They done gentrified the Black national anthem.” This quip reflects a broader discontent with how the anthem is perceived and executed, suggesting that it has become more of a performative gesture than a meaningful tribute.
The thread of dissatisfaction ran deep, not only criticizing the inclusion of the anthem itself but also pointing towards the NFL’s management. Fans expressed concerns over how the league is perceived as pandering to political pressures, exemplified by one comment that targeted NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, implying that he and the league are “cowards scared of Trump.”
This controversy illustrates the cultural tensions playing out not just in the NFL, but in many arenas across America. The integration of the Black National Anthem into pre-game festivities has generated fierce dialogue about its appropriateness and implications. Many fans, eager for an escape from daily life, want football to remain an arena of unity. The presence of the anthem—as enthusiastic as it was meant to be—is viewed by many as an unnecessary and unwelcome distraction.
As the NFL grapples with how to balance respect for all its fans with the social movements of today, it is clear that decisions like these will continue to provoke strong reactions. The streets of Philadelphia may be home to passionate Eagles fans, but in that moment, the loudest voices were in criticism, signifying an ongoing struggle between tradition and modernity.
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