As the NFL season kicked off with the highly anticipated game between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens, a new wave of controversy emerged surrounding the pre-game traditions. Fans took to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the inclusion of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” a song often referred to as the ‘Black National Anthem.’ This performance, delivered by Grammy Award-winning artist Tasha Cobbs, has been a fixture at the NFL’s season opener for several years, but this year it has ignited a fierce debate.
The backlash was swift, with numerous fans voicing their displeasure and threatening to boycott the league over what they perceive as a shift in tradition. Many complaints focused on the notion that the song was replacing the traditional National Anthem, a claim that the NFL refutes. The league maintains that “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is not a replacement but an addition to the pre-game ceremony, meant to honor and reflect the diversity within the league and its fanbase.
In response to this uproar, former NFL defensive end Chris Long, known for his outspoken views and activism, took to social media to defend the league’s decision. Long’s response was succinct yet powerful: a single word — “Fragile.” His retort was aimed at those criticizing the inclusion of the song, suggesting that their reaction revealed a lack of resilience and understanding.
Long’s comment underscores a broader conversation about the role of inclusivity in sports and the backlash that often accompanies efforts to address historical and ongoing racial issues. The term “Fragile” was a pointed critique of the perceived sensitivity of those opposing the anthem’s inclusion, highlighting a tension between tradition and progress.
Despite the controversy, the NFL’s viewership numbers tell a different story. The season opener drew nearly 30 million viewers, setting a new record and demonstrating that the league remains a major draw for fans, regardless of the heated debates surrounding its pre-game ceremonies. The high turnout for the Chiefs vs. Ravens game indicates that, while vocal critics are expressing their dissatisfaction, the broader audience continues to engage with the sport enthusiastically.
As the NFL season progresses, the debate over the ‘Black National Anthem’ is likely to continue. The league’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, reflected in its choice to feature the song, stands in contrast to the reactions of some fans. With upcoming games, such as the Chiefs facing the Cincinnati Bengals and the Ravens taking on the Las Vegas Raiders, the focus will remain on the field, even as discussions about pre-game traditions persist.
