National Anthem Tradition at Baseball Games Highlights Civic Unity in America
A project led by Eytan Saenger, in partnership with Civic Spirit, aims to sing the National Anthem at professional baseball games across the United States in honor of America's 250th anniversary. This initiative seeks to highlight the pride, civic responsibility, and shared values represented by this tradition. The National Anthem has been a part of baseball games since 1862, becoming a regular pregame activity during the 1918 World Series. The anthem's performance at games is seen as a powerful expression of civic identity, uniting fans, players, and staff in a shared moment of pause before the first pitch. This tradition underscores the importance of civic participation and unity, reminding Americans of their shared commitment to the values that bind them.