Both the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Flyers have reacted to an allegation of racism against Kate Smith, the late singer who performed a 1939…
Both the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Flyers have reacted to an allegation of racism against Kate Smith, the late singer who performed a 1939 rendition of “God Bless America” played at both teams’ home games.
Smith sang songs titled “Pickaninny Heaven” and “That’s Why Darkies Were Born,” although the latter has been classified as satire and was also recorded by black singer Paul Robeson.
The Yankees will not play Smith’s version of “God Bless America,” which they had used during the seventh-inning stretch for 18 years, The Associated Press reported Thursday. The Yankees are investigating the allegation before deciding on a permanent course of action. (RELATED: Capitals Star T. J. Oshie Suffers Scary Injury, Won’t Return ‘Anytime Soon’)
Shortly after, the Flyers said Friday that Smith’s song is out at the Wells Fargo Center and covered up a World War II-era statue of the singer outside their arena, reported CBS Sports.
