PBS faces significant backlash from conservatives for its decision to have Vanessa Williams perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing” during its annual Capitol Fourth program.
According to the New York Post, the song, now referred to as the “Black national anthem,” is intended to celebrate the recognition of Juneteenth becoming a federal holiday.
“It’s in celebration of the wonderful opportunity that we now have to celebrate Juneteenth. So we are reflective of the times,” the actress and singer told the Associated Press.
“We are reflective of the times, and I’m happy to be part of a tremendous show that the producers are aware and willing to make the changes that have happened within the past year and a half.”
Williams’ performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” will not replace the national anthem. “The Star-Spangled Banner” will still be performed by Grammy-award-winning singer Renée Fleming.
The performance, to air on PBS from 8 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the 4th, has caused a stir on social media. Many users called the performance of the two songs “divisive.”
“Nothing will unite us more as a nation that separate but equal national anthems…” author Tim Young tweeted.
“What is this National Anthem?” asked Fox News contributor Sarah A. Carter.
“What unites us these days? Anything? Not a good sign,” a conservative user asked.
Nothing will unite us more as a nation than separate but equal national anthems… https://t.co/KPqkJUpdWB
— Tim Young (@TimRunsHisMouth) July 4, 2021
What is this National Anthem? I always imagined that the National Anthem included and was about all Americans… we are one nation, under God…I really wish this admin would stop trying to divide everyone. The leftists Divide and conquer operation is about tearing America apart https://t.co/q13S7qNy1L
— Sara A. Carter (@SaraCarterDC) July 3, 2021
https://twitter.com/toddstarnes/status/1411457199285714946?s=20
Performing the "black national anthem" at the Capitol Fourth celebration is not only divisive, but just another example that we're two nations pretending to be one.
What unites us these days? Anything? Not a good sign.
— 🇺🇸 Matthew H 🇺🇸 (@realMatthew_H) July 4, 2021
