Indiana College Bans Song for its Violent Content ~ The National Anthem

GOSHEN, Ind. - On Tuesday, March 23, 2010 - 'History' was made at Goshen College as the National Anthem was played [Instrumental Only] before two sporting events for the first time since intercollegiate athletics began at the college in 1957. At the time, President Jim Brenneman said, "I am committed to retaining the best of what it means to be a Mennonite college, while opening the doors wider to all who share our core values. And I invite others to join us at Goshen College as we make peace in all of its forms, even with the national anthem."

Roughly one year later, June 6, 2011, the school's board told Brenneman to "find an alternative to playing the National Anthem that fits with sports tradition, that honors country and that resonates with Goshen College’s core values and respects the views of diverse constituencies."

He did. But not until after careful consideration. Some items he needed to address and make sure were included in the new song included the following:

The sports tradition, as practiced, calls for a song, easily recognizable and sung by the majority of attendees at a game.

It had to honor country.

It had to resonate with GC’s core values. (Petition God’s gracious blessing upon America...)

Respect views of different constituencies.

Yes, after all that he went where you think he went: America the Beautiful

Goshen College | Healing the world, peace by peace. Light shines here during the plague of darkness. National Anthem? Banned. Swinging? All yours, baby! Especially from the back row.

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Indiana College Bans Song for its Violent Content ~ The National Anthem