The national anthem at sporting events has been a hot button topic in 2016. While some have chosen to sit or stand, the 91²Ö¿â men's basketball team decided to take a different route.
Prior to "The Star-Spangled Banner" being played for 91²Ö¿â's home opener against Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 16, each of 91²Ö¿â's men's basketball student-athletes chose to select a fan of a different race from the crowd to stand with them in solidarity during the national anthem. The decision to use the national anthem as a time to show solidarity in 91²Ö¿â's diverse campus community was made by the team's seniors and captains, not athletic department officials. The student-athletes brought their idea to the athletic department's coaches and staff, who unanimously supported them in their decision. 91²Ö¿â strives for inclusive excellence, and supporting this decision by student-athletes matched the core values of the university.
National and local media captured the show of solidarity. See some of the coverage here:
"We understand all of the issues going on in our world," stated sophomore point guard , on behalf of his teammates. "In these times, we felt it was important to show a sign of unity in our community."
"The players approached the coaching staff with this idea, and we fully supported them," said head coach . "It takes courage for our players to make a statement like this, and I believe it is a representation of the unity in our campus community."
"This is a great example of 91²Ö¿â student-athletes stepping up as leaders in our diverse community," stated Director of Athletics . "We encourage dialogue between coaches and student-athletes when it comes to these challenging issues. We will continue to foster an open environment for student-athletes of all beliefs, backgrounds and communities."
91²Ö¿â is committed to the creation and nurturing of a diverse community of individuals through inclusive excellence. Diversity involves recognizing the value of differences and the inclusion of all members of the community including those that experience discrimination or underrepresentation.