LANSING — Yesterday state Rep. Leslie Love (D-Detroit) submitted a resolution urging the playing of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” before the start of every professional sporting event in the month of February, to honor Black History Month. The resolution was sent to the Committee on Commerce and Trade. In response, Rep. Love issued the following statement:
“There is a proud history of honoring our athletes of color in Michigan. The Red Wings even spent 38 years playing in an arena named after the great Joe Louis. From the Bad Boys teams of Isaiah Thomas and Joe Dumars to Grant Hill, to Rip Hamilton and Ben Wallace, the Pistons have brought us not only memories but championships. This resolution seeks to honor their contributions and the contributions of so many other athletes of color.
“When many of the athletes in our country are of African heritage, the playing of the Black National Anthem honors not only them but all who have fought for equality. African-American Athletes have contributed to this country in many ways and not just on the field or on the court. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” is just as important to our community as the “Star-Spangled Banner.” At a time when athletes are again taking a public stand to shine a light on the injustices we face in this country, let us honor their form of patriotism through this song.”