![]() ![]() They also cite references of inequality among men and women. Petition creators also argue the song is focused on victory and military strength and does not exemplify the American values of brotherhood, national unity and patriotism. It alleges that not only did Key own slaves, but also that the song itself “contains racism, elitism and even sexism embedded in its third and fourth stanzas.” The petition moves to change the national anthem to “America the Beautiful.” ![]() New signatures have been added to the petition this past week. James Weldon Johnson wrote the lyrics to Lift Every Voice and Sing in 1900, and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson, set the poem to music. The Smithsonian reports that Key was a slave owner and defended slave owners’ rights to own human property.Ī petition calling for the change of the anthem has recently resurfaced and is gaining new support amidst the current climate surrounding controversial statues and monuments. Contrary to common belief, this song was originally a poem, and was not intended to be an anthem by its composer. However, citizens are now asking for a new national anthem because of Key’s ties to slavery. This poem later served as the lyrics for “The Star-Spangled Banner,” which became the official national anthem of the US in 1931. ![]() Statue of John Calhoun, vice president who defended slavery, comes down in Charleston ![]()
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