Super Bowl LIX Faces Criticism Over 'Black National Anthem' Performance

Ledisi will perform 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' before the game, continuing a tradition that has drawn backlash from some conservative voices.

The performance of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing,' often referred to as the 'Black national anthem,' marks its fifth consecutive appearance at the Super Bowl pregame ceremony.
Critics, including some conservative figures, have called the song divisive and inappropriate for the event, with boycott threats circulating on social media.
The NFL introduced the song in 2020 as part of its social justice initiatives following the murder of George Floyd, pledging $250 million over ten years to combat racism.
Ledisi, a Grammy-winning artist, expressed pride in performing the song, describing it as a representation of Black perseverance and inspiration.
President Donald Trump, attending the game, has rolled back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, aligning with broader criticism of the NFL's social justice efforts.