Rep. Love offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 247.

            A resolution to urge the playing of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" prior to the start of all professional sporting events in Michigan during Black History Month.

            Whereas, In 1900, James Weldon Johnson wrote the words and his brother, John Rosamond Johnson, wrote the music to "Lift Every Voice and Sing" for a celebration of President Abraham Lincoln's birthday. It was performed by 500 schoolchildren on February 12, 1900, in Jacksonville, Florida; and

            Whereas, Over the ensuing decades, the song spread across the South and other parts of the country. In 1921, it was adopted by the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) as its official song. Sung in schools, graduation ceremonies, military assemblies, sporting events, and other civic meetings, often alongside the "Star Spangled Banner," it became known as the Black National Anthem and is one of the most cherished songs of the African American civil rights movement; and

            Whereas, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" is a truly American hymn. It is a celebration of liberty, a remembrance of struggle, and a hopeful prayer for a better future that has special meaning for African Americans and their history but resonates with all Americans; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we urge the playing of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" prior to the start of all professional sporting events in Michigan during Black History Month; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the senior management of the Detroit Pistons, the Detroit Red Wings, and Little Caesars Arena.