Since Reversed

For John, BLUF:  Is it again OK to be patriotic?  Nothing to see here; just move along.

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White House says Mavericks’ national anthem ban recognizes US failings

From The New York Post, by Reporter Ebony Bowden, 10 February 2021, 1:30pm.

Here is the lede plus one:

The Biden administration on Tuesday appeared to support the Dallas Mavericks’ decision to nix the national anthem at games — telling reporters that national pride includes knowing that Americans “haven’t lived up to our highest ideals.”

At a White House press conference, spokeswoman Jen Psaki was asked what President Biden thought of Mavericks owner Mark Cuban’s decision to no longer play “The Star-Spangled Banner” following an athlete-led kneeling protest over systemic racism.

“Well, I haven’t spoken with the president about the decision by Mark Cuban or the Dallas Mavericks,” Psaki said, “but I know he’s incredibly proud to be an American, and has great respect for the anthem, and all that represents, especially for our men and women serving in uniform around the world.”

Biden’s top spokeswoman then appeared to endorse the decision and said athletes choosing to kneel during the anthem were calling out the nation’s failings.

I am not particularly fond of The Star Spangled Banner as our natinal anthem, although Miss Malea Emma Tjandrawidjaja's rendition is very captivating.  I could start the day with her rendition from now to forever. 

I thought the casual dismissal of this by the President's Press Secretary left much to be desired.

However, Mr Cuban appears to have reversed his position, perhaps urged on by the NBA organization.

I have to agree with Ms Jen Psaki, the White House Press Secretary.  We “haven’t lived up to our highest ideals.”  On the other hand, who around the world have?  Who have lived up to their own debased ideals?  We have pitched our ideals pretty high and fallen short.  But, we fight on.  We are Americans.

Hat tip to the InstaPundit.

Regards  —  Cliff