The NFL, although late, is starting to get it.
The organization announced today that “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.
The league is also considering a variety of other measures during the upcoming season to recognize victims of police brutality, according to reports.
The song would be performed before “The Star-Spangled Banner,” according to reports.
The NFL’s season opener is scheduled for Sept. 10, with the Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Houston Texans.
Now You Get It
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 NBA has been rumored to be pursuing the same outward show of support on their players jerseys.
The NFL also may produce educational programs about victims, among other plans.
Early last month, commissioner Roger Goodell in a video admitted that the league had erred in how it handled peaceful NFL player protests of police brutality and systemic oppression.
Goodell condemned racism and affirmed that Black lives matter, He also pledged his allegiance to the players in the battle for equal justice under the law.
In June, the league revealed plans to increase its social justice footprint. It pledged to donate $250 million over a 10-year period.
The question now is, is playing “Lift Ev’ry Voice” during Week 1 enough? Or should it replace the national anthem before every game?
