University of Texas report determines ‘no racist intent’ in song

The University of Texas’ longawaited report on “The Eyes of Texas” has found that the school song has“no racist intent,”but the school president said athletes and band members will not be required to sing or participate when the song is played at games and campus events.

The 58-page report, released Tuesday, was commissioned last year by school President Jay Hartzell after a group of Texas athletes, most notably football players, demanded the school drop the song as part of racial injustice protests.

Football players sparked outrage among alumni when they chose to leave the field instead of taking part in the traditional sing-along with fans after several games. Some fans sent emails to Hartzell warning the school would lose financial donors.

A 24-person panel charged with studying the song’s origins, lyrics and history determined it was rooted in a message of accountability and striving toward excellence. The report also noted the song was first performed at a minstrel show, most likely with performers in blackface.

“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,” the report states in its executive summary.“‘the Eyes of Texas’ should not only unite us, but hold all of us accountable to our institution’s core values.”

The panel was not charged with making a decision on the song’s future. Hartzell reiterated the song will continue to be played at games and events.