The 76ers were contractually within their rights to block Sevyn Streeter from singing the national anthem Wednesday because she wore a “WE MATTER” jersey.
But they also made a choice – to silence someone who was asking for only her dignity as a person so they could present a faux unity.
Thanks to some implied pressure from their players, the 76ers saw the error of their ways.
Dei Lynam of CSN Philly:
The Sixers have released the following regarding Wednesday night anthem situation pic.twitter.com/SYKznhhQ19
— Dei Lynam (@dlynamCSN) October 28, 2016
Why did the 76ers say “The wrong decision was made” rather than “We made the wrong decision”? They’re still deflecting responsibility, but at least they reached the right outcome.
I hope Streeter returns to perform the anthem wearing the same jersey, but after that experience, I wouldn’t blame her if she chooses not to.