Black National Anthem Ignites Uproar Among MAGA Supporters

Supporters of Donald Trump were deeply angered by the decision to include the Black National Anthem during the pre-game festivities of Super Bowl LVIII. The rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Andra Day, a hymn closely associated with the NAACP, ignited controversy among various factions of American society.

Kari Lake is Unhappy Over Black National Anthem

I hear the @NFL is still trying to force this divisive nonsense down America’s throats.

I won’t stand for it. Literally.

America has only ONE National Anthem and that Anthem is color blind. https://t.co/fFSHcp7sP1

— Kari Lake (@KariLake) September 8, 2023

Kari Lake, a notable figure who previously vied for a Senate seat in Arizona, expressed her dissent vehemently on social media platform X. She declared, “I’m STILL not standing for this divisive garbage. One nation. One anthem.” Similarly, the account End Wokeness joined the chorus of criticism, rejecting the notion of a separate anthem and urging those who disagreed with the American National Anthem to voice their dissent or depart.

Matt Gaetz is Showing His Racism Towards Black National Anthem

Wife: Today is the Super Bowl!

Me: We aren’t watching.

Wife: Why?

Me: They’re desecrating America’s National Anthem by playing something called the “Black National Anthem.”

Wife: Does that mean Cardi is performing?

— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) February 11, 2024

Joining the chorus of disapproval, Representative Matt Gaetz announced his boycott of the Super Bowl, citing the inclusion of the “Black National Anthem” as his reason. However, amidst the uproar, there were voices celebrating the song’s inclusion. Some users on platform X commended Andra Day’s rendition and underscored the significance of representation in such high-profile events.

Lift Every Voice and Sing

The origins of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” trace back to the late 19th century when James Weldon Johnson penned it as a poem. Later, his brother John Rosamond Johnson set it to music in 1905. The hymn gained renewed prominence during the protests following George Floyd’s tragic murder, becoming a poignant symbol of resilience and perseverance for marginalized communities. Its inclusion at NFL ceremonies marked a deliberate acknowledgment of its historical and cultural significance.

Diversity in the Nation

While advocates of the hymn extol its profound message of unity and optimism, dissenting voices such as those represented by journalist Megyn Kelly and the influential platform of the Libs of TikTok argue vehemently against its incorporation. They posit that the inclusion of the Black National Anthem poses a challenge to the notion of a singular national identity, advocating instead for a unified anthem that encapsulates the multifaceted diversity of the nation. Critics contend that the presence of a separate anthem may further accentuate divisions rather than foster inclusivity, suggesting that a collective anthem would better represent the collective ethos of the country.

Star-Spangled Banner

Scholars, renowned for their depth of insight, present nuanced perspectives on the contentious issue. Timothy Askew, a prominent figure in the academic sphere, lends his voice to the discussion, recognizing the profound and timeless themes interwoven within “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Alongside his peers, Askew calls for the acknowledgment of this hymn in parallel with the “Star-Spangled Banner.” He emphasizes the paramount significance of fostering unity and inclusivity within the national dialogue, suggesting that the recognition of diverse cultural expressions contributes to a more enriched and cohesive societal fabric.

The American Experience and Navigating Complex Racial Issues

In the grand tapestry of American identity, the debate over anthems reflects broader societal conversations about history, representation, and inclusion. As the nation navigates its complex past and charts a course for the future, the melodies and lyrics of these anthems serve as poignant reminders of the ideals and challenges that define the American experience.