The Cultural Tug of War over the Super Bowl’s Pregame Ceremony: A Deeper Look

The Super Bowl’s Reignition of Old Debates

In the world of spotlight-stealing football events, controversy seems to be a kind of unexpected halftime show. More than two decades after the NAACP embraced “Lift Every Voice and Sing” as the ‘Black national anthem,’ the renowned melody is inciting a social media-stirred ruckus yet again in the days leading up to the Super Bowl. The intimidating tension is further heightened by vocal critics like Rep. Lauren Boebert arguing there’s “ONE NATIONAL ANTHEM.” Others label the empowering song, echoing resilience and hope for the oppressed, a ‘Black Supremacy’ anthem, consequently stirring up loads of complicated pieces for public digestion.

Elicitation of a Thick Soup of Opinions

This tug of war of ideas isn’t only involving the usual suspects. In a twist of events, some Black conservatives are swimming against the tide, arguing the anthem ought not to be part of the game. In their view, it’s a last-ditch attempt at ‘desperate exploitation’ that only fuels racial tension and animosity. With all these tangled issues, one begs the question: what’s the real meaning behind this performance?

The Current Sociopolitical Landscape and Opposition to DEI Efforts

The debate is unfolding against a backdrop of a societal shift where numerous elements of American life from corporate boardrooms to sports are increasingly battling the rejection of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Looking at the bigger picture, it’s not hard to see that it’s a nerve-racking period—one where the song’s inclusion seems to mirror these broader national struggles. One could argue that these conflicts are reflected in the inclusion of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” in the pregame ceremonies, an occurrence that has been featured in the last five Super Bowl events, each time attracting critics questioning its appropriateness.

The Story Behind “Lift Every Voice and Sing”

This historical song was penned by civil rights activist and NAACP leader James Weldon Johnson in 1900. Initially a poem, it was later transformed into a song after a collaboration with his younger brother, J. Rosamond Johnson. Today, it resonates deeply with the Black community across the country. Those who teach the song describe it as a powerful and inspirational anthem that encapsulates the struggle, progress, and aspiration of the Black community.

Reaction from the Stadium and Beyond

Despite the bitter taste that the performance leaves in the mouths of its critics, there are those who don’t see it as a form of attack or protest against the league or as a political statement. They argue that the public should see the song as an ode to Black affirmation, perseverance, and inspiration. The reaction from the stadium, however, is politically charged, especially now that Donald Trump has returned to the White House, with a part of his agenda being to dismantle DEI in the federal government and beyond.

The Players’ Field: NFL and DEI Strategies

Despite Trump’s plans and the heavy backlash over the song’s inclusions and diversity campaigns, the NFL seems unshaken. According to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, DEI policies have helped the NFL to improve. Remember, more than half of the athletes in the league that was brought into being in 1946 are Black, so inclusion matters. However, when you dig into the fine points, there appears to exist a disconnection somewhere. Recent surveys reveal dissatisfaction among Black NFL players, as there is the perception that the representation of Black coaches is lacking, a concern that has persisted for over four decades.

Lessons from the Past: The Kaepernick Case

The scenario eerily echoes former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s knee-taking protest during the national anthem. Kaepernick’s action, motivated by police brutality against Black men, was met with strong opposition, notably from Trump. The consequent backlash meant that Kaepernick never again graced the NFL pitch. Those opposed to “Lift Every Voice and Sing” liken it to Kaepernick’s protest, framing it as another form of protest or a protest song. It seems that many are fed up with protests associated with American sports and entertainment generally.

Looking Ahead: Seeking Common Ground

Given this societal minefield, it remains unclear whether the NFL will continue to include “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before the Super Bowl. The key to moving forward may lie in understanding the fine shades of difference in our beliefs and finding ways to positively bring together a nation that’s seemingly on edge. As many sides continue to steer through the twisting river of cultural politics and sports, it is vital to remember the uniting power of sport and its role in bringing people together, regardless of their race, religion, or political inclinations.

Originally Post From https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/2025-super-bowl-are-lashing-lift-every-voice-sing-black-national-anthe-rcna191030

Super Bowl Pregame Ceremony Sparks Controversy Among Fans