A rendition of Andra Day's “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” also known as the Black National Anthem, may have captivated fans, but its inclusion in the lineup sparked outrage on social media.
Day's performance in Super Bowl LVIII earned her applause and appreciation in the stadium. according to On Fox News. Reba McIntyre sang the national anthem and Post Malone was part of a lineup that included an interpretation of “America the Beautiful.” However, the inclusion of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” caused a wave of controversy across social media, with some NFL enthusiasts expressing their displeasure. (Related: NFL continues to divide America on Super Bowl (of course))
There was particular criticism from politicians, including Republican Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz, who shared with X his decision to skip the Super Bowl.
Wife: Today is the Super Bowl!
Me: We haven't seen it.
Wife: Why?
Me: They are desecrating America's national anthem by playing something called the “Negro national anthem.”
Wife: So does that mean Cardi is performing?
— Matt Gaetz (@mattgaetz) February 11, 2024
Echoing Gaetz's sentiments, Ohio Congressman Mike Leucich emphasized unity behind one national anthem.
There is no such thing as a “black national anthem.”
We are all Americans, united by the great and beautiful Star-Spangled Banner.
The Super Bowl is supposed to unite us.
It is shameful that the NFL has decided to promote the politics of racial division once again.
— Rep. Mike Loychik (@MikeLoychik) February 11, 2024
Many fans agree.
This is why I don't watch overrated professional sports anymore.
— Accidental Rebel Fran (@FranDeMario2) February 11, 2024
This is just another divisive attempt to separate us from “1. We're all Americans.” United we stand; divided we fall. Don't let them succeed!
— Ryan Sean (@ryguy1o1) February 12, 2024
Despite the backlash, several people defended the song's inclusion.
It amazes me that so many people are inspired by black representation. It would be funny if it wasn't so sarcastic.
It's not for you. Not everything is right for you and you need to be okay with it. There is no such thing as “racism” other than what you make up. Let me…
— Jackson Dean Pacific (@PacificJD) February 11, 2024
The black national anthem has been around for years!! People are just mad because they started singing it at sporting events.
— Mike Lord (@MrMikeLordSr) February 11, 2024
According to FOX News, the NFL didn't introduce the Black National Anthem into its lineup until the 2020 season. It was a response to the nationwide movement against racial injustice sparked by the death of George Floyd in Miniapolis.
