2021 has been quite an unusual year so far.
After the Dallas Mavericks faced backlash and subsequently reversed their decision to not play the national anthem before home games following revelations that team owner Mark Cuban had stopped the tradition, the Dallas Stars issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to continuing the tradition of playing the anthem at their home games, seemingly taking a swipe at the Mavericks.
The statement from the Dallas Stars read, “The playing of the national anthem is a time-honored tradition and the Dallas Stars will continue to perform the Star-Spangled Banner prior to our games at American Airlines Center. As the only National Hockey League team in Texas, we are proud to represent our state and our country.”
Responding to this, NBA Chief Communications Officer Mike Bass stated, “With NBA teams now in the process of welcoming fans back into their arenas, all teams will play the national anthem in keeping with longstanding league policy.”
Reactions on social media varied:
– Some criticized the Stars, questioning the importance of playing the anthem.
– Others highlighted the lack of sensitivity in the message delivered by the Stars.
– The pick-me attitude displayed by the Stars did not go down well with many.
In a time where cultural differences and societal issues are at the forefront, the decision and statements made by the Dallas Stars received mixed reactions online, reflecting the ongoing debates surrounding these issues.
The backlash and subsequent responses underscore the complexities and sensitivities surrounding issues of tradition, representation, and social commentary in sports.
