Controversy Follows “Black National Anthem” At Super Bowl LVII

The “Lift Every Voice and Sing” (Dubbed the “Black National Anthem”) was performed at Super Bowl LVII, and viewers immediately let their opinions be known about a segregated National Anthem.

Following country music star Chris Stapleton’s performance of the National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” (Dubbed the “Black National Anthem”) was performed before Super Bowl LVII by actress and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph, and controversy immediately arose, with many feeling as though the country is reverting to segregated times, with African Americans now having their own National Anthem, an anthem intended to represent the nation as a whole.

On the other hand, many felt empowered by the anthem having been sung before the United States largest viewed and traditionally most anticipated sporting event. This comes during Black History Month, and having two Black quarterbacks going head-to-head for the first time in Super Bowl history.

However, in response to this argument in favor of the “Black National Anthem,” many feel as though the NFL and supporters of the anthem are intentionally attempting to dismantle the cultural significance of the unity behind the National Anthem. Opting for racial division as opposed to racial unity in the United States.

“Black National Anthem” is an oxymoron. We are ONE nation under God. If you think otherwise, you’re in support of segregation. It’s that simple.

— Xaviaer DuRousseau (@XAVIAERD) February 12, 2023

There should not be a black national anthem.

— Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) February 12, 2023

Spoiler Alert: The people pushing the “Black National Anthem” aren’t trying to unify the country, they’re trying to divide it.

— ALX 🇺🇸 (@alx) February 12, 2023

As a result of the “Black National Anthem: having been performed at Super Bowl LVII, many have taken to Twitter to make the hashtag #BoycottNFL trend.

However, with the Super Bowl already having been played and with over 200 days until kickoff for the next NFL season, it’s unlikely that this will be a large enough movement to last until the 2023 NFL season in September.

Divisive 'Black National Anthem' Sung at Super Bowl LVII

"Diversity" divides a nation and destroys it from within – as we are seeing now.

More reason to continue to #BoycottNFL

https://t.co/moeqEUdXtd

— ꧁🍃 Ɣ 🍃꧂ (@V_its_me_) February 13, 2023

The shame of @nflcommish continues.. from sheltering of wife-beaters, the harboring of known criminals, and now a black National Anthem??.. #WakeUpAmerica #BoycottNFL #FBLM #DumpGoddell #FJB https://t.co/3gyOiuGrqW

— Charles Yannetti (@CharlesYannetti) February 13, 2023

The “Black National Anthem” largely rose to prominence following 2020, a year that saw the BLM protests and riots following the death of George Floyd. Many believe a separate national anthem for a particular race could be seen as divisive and harmful to the idea of a unified nation. Many also believe that a separate national anthem for a specific race is not necessary, and that American citizens of all races should be coming together to celebrate the United States, not specific ethnicities within the United States.

Alexander J. Williams III