Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Black National Anthem at the Super Bowl 2026

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The inclusion of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing,' often referred to as the Black National Anthem, in the Super Bowl pre-game ceremonies has become a cultural touchstone in recent years. The song, originally a poem written by James Weldon Johnson and set to music by his brother J. Rosamond Johnson in 1900, has evolved into a powerful expression of Black identity and resilience. The NFL's embrace of the anthem is seen as a response to the controversy surrounding Colin Kaepernick's protests during the national anthem in 2016, as well as the broader racial justice movement sparked by the murder of George Floyd in 2020. While some view the move as a performative gesture, for many it represents a long-overdue acknowledgment of Black history and culture.

Why it matters

The performance of 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at the Super Bowl reflects a broader trend of increasing demands for more inclusive representation in American traditions. This isn't simply about adding a Black anthem to the lineup; it's about challenging the dominant narrative and acknowledging the multifaceted experiences of all Americans. The Super Bowl, with its massive viewership and cultural influence, serves as a powerful barometer of American society, and the inclusion of the 'Black National Anthem' is a moment of reckoning, a reminder of the nation's complex history and its ongoing struggle to live up to its ideals.

The details

Born as a poem by James Weldon Johnson and set to music by his brother J. Rosamond Johnson in 1900, 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' wasn't initially intended as a protest song. It was first performed by 500 schoolchildren in Jacksonville, Florida, on Lincoln's birthday, a celebration of hope and resilience within a segregated community. Over time, the song organically evolved into a powerful expression of Black identity and a source of strength during times of hardship. The NFL's embrace of the anthem is inextricably linked to the controversy surrounding Colin Kaepernick's peaceful protests during the national anthem in 2016, which sparked a national debate about patriotism, racial injustice, and the role of athletes in social activism.

• In 2016, Colin Kaepernick began protesting during the national anthem.
• In 2020, the widespread protests sparked by George Floyd's murder led the NFL to seek to demonstrate a commitment to social justice.
• In 2021, the Biden-Harris administration played 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' during the inauguration ceremony.

What’s next

Coco Jones is scheduled to perform 'Lift Every Voice and Sing' at Super Bowl LX in 2026, providing another opportunity for the country to reflect on its past, confront its present, and envision a more inclusive future.