RFU won’t ban fans from singing ‘Swinglow’

THE Rugby Football Union has announced it will not be banning the singing of ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’ at England rugby matches.

The RFU began a review into the “historical context” of the popular song, which has roots in American slavery, earlier this summer amid the Black Lives Matter movement.

The governing body said in June it would address whether the song was appropriate as part of a wideranging and extensive review into its diversity and inclusion programme.

In a statement released on Thursday, the RFU said: “The RFU has stated it will not ban Swing Low, Sweet Chariot as it has a long-held place in rugby history however, the Union will use its social media and event audiences to proactively educate fans on the history and provenance of the song as well as providing platforms for diverse voices across the game.”

Boris Johnson has said the song should not be prohibited, but some former and current players have questioned its popularity.

Ex-england hooker Brian Moore said he “hated it” and former England Women flanker Maggie Alphonsi said it no longer “sits easy” with her.

Current England lock Maro Itoje also claimed the song made him feel “uncomfortable”, but that he did not think it should be banned. Swing Low, Sweet Chariot is believed to have its roots in American slavery, with its credited author being Wallace Willis – a freed slave from 19th century Oklahoma.

An RFU spokesperson said it had reached its decision following indepth research into how it could improve diversity and inclusion across all areas of the game.

“The RFU has conducted research with over 4,400 people from the rugby community to understand attitudes.”