The National Anthem Before Sports Events: A Unifying Symbol or a Dividing Line?

Is the national anthem a necessary part of professional sporting events? In recent times, it seems to divide us more than it unites us. While there’s no rule mandating the playing or singing of the national anthem before a game, its inclusion has become a routine practice, especially during wartime and other significant events.

No Legal Requirement for the National Anthem

Contrary to popular belief, there is no legal requirement for the national anthem to be played or sung before a professional sporting event. In fact, the anthem was only officially recognized as the national anthem of the United States by President Herbert Hoover in the 1930s. Before that, sports events managed perfectly fine without it.

The Rise of Anthem Playing during WWII

It was during World War II that the playing of the national anthem at the start of sports events became a routine practice. While I can appreciate the sentiment behind it, I wonder if it’s still necessary for every single event. The anthem is a lengthy and complex song, and even professional singers might find it challenging to perform it flawlessly.

Considering the multitude of patriotic gestures that exist, singing the national anthem seems excessive. There are other more symbolic acts that might be just as effective in fostering patriotism, such as waving flags or standing for a moment of silence.

Secular Ritual or Ineffective Gesture?

While playing the anthem may not incite division among fans, it is certainly divisive among those in positions of influence. Politicians often wear flag lapel pins to remind themselves of their duty as public servants, but do these symbols truly unite a nation?

Some argue that the national anthem is a unifying symbol, representing the country as a whole. However, certain groups may feel slighted or marginalized when called to pay allegiance to a symbol with a history that doesn’t reflect their experiences. These groups may see rejecting the anthem as a rejection of the ideals that claim to promote freedom and equality.

Exploitation of Grievances by the Influential

The primary cause of division is not the national anthem itself but the exploitation of grievances by those with significant influence and emotional appeal. These individuals and organizations use these issues to promote division, preventing true unity. By removing their influence, we can focus on the unifying aspects of our shared culture, like the anthem, rather than the divisive elements.

Dividing Lines Among Sports Fans?

It’s worth questioning whether the division caused by the national anthem is real or simply a manufactured tension among specific groups. Do fans truly disagree on this issue, or are we witnessing a manufactured debate between sports broadcasters and their audiences?

Sports fans have historically been meritocratic, valuing performance and achievement above all else. The anthem is a tool for rally and unity, but its significance may be overstated in modern times. Perhaps it’s time to consider whether continuing this tradition is still beneficial, or if there are more inclusive ways to promote national pride.

Whether we choose to continue the tradition or opt for a more inclusive gesture, such as Woody Guthrie’s This Land Is Your Land, the most important thing is to find a way to foster unity and pride for all Americans.