The NFL Plans To Play ‘Black National Anthem’ Before Every Week 1 NFL Game

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The NFL will play “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing,” better known as the black national anthem, before every Week 1 season opener game, according to Jason Reid of ESPN.

“Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” will be performed before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” in an effort to demonstrate “a genuine commitment to the public, players, and coaches and that player voices continue to be heard,”

“Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing,” traditionally known as the Black national anthem, is expected to be performed live or played before every Week 1 NFL game, and the league is considering a variety of other measures during the upcoming season to recognize victims of police brutality, a source familiar with the league’s discussions told The Undefeated on Thursday.

The song would be performed before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the source said. The NFL’s season opener is scheduled for Sept. 10, with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Houston Texans.

The league hopes its efforts demonstrate “a genuine commitment to the public, players and coaches and that player voices continue to be heard,” the source wrote in a text message. “This is key to educating fans, and becoming a prominent voice in the fight to end racism.”

The NFL also plans to consider allowing players to wear customized jerseys with the names of victims of police brutality.

Having recently displayed increased awareness about the problems of systemic racism, the NFL, in collaboration with the NFL Players Association, is also considering listing the names of victims on uniforms through decals on helmets or patches on jerseys. The NFL also may produce educational programs about victims, among other plans.

Media members and fans immediately fired back at the NFL for the “superficial” move.

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