Bevo’s Daily Roundup: Texas committee finds that ‘The Eyes of Texas’ has ‘no racist intent’
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Texas school officials’ 24-person committee examining the origins and intentions of the school song “The Eyes of Texas” determined that the song does not have “racist intent.”
That’s according to a report in the
Statesman: “In an executive summary, the committee determined, ‘These historical facts add complexity and richness to the story of a song that debuted in a racist setting, exceedingly common for the time, but, as the preponderance of research showed, had no racist intent.’ Social justice issues brought to light last summer triggered an ideological controversy over the century-old song sung at football games, graduations, weddings and funerals. Texas President Jay Hartzell had already announced ‘The Eyes’ would remain in place despite criticism from all sides, both on campus and off.” For the full
The report debunked claims “The Eyes of Texas” had ties to Confederate General Robert E. Lee, but acknowledged its origins were tinged by racism.
Texas running back Keaontay Ingram adjusts his helmet during a morning practice at the team’s facility in Austin in August 2019. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
AUSTIN, Texas (CN) First performed at a minstrel show in 1903 by white students in blackface, the University of Texas’ school song “The Eyes of Texas” is for many alumni a beloved tradition. But a new report sparked by Black students questioning the song’s origins recommends students not be required to sing it.
The University of Texas long-awaited report on The Eyes of Texas has found that the school song has no racist intent, but the school president said athletes will not have to stand and sing with fans.