"If they want to sing a song about our country, then pick one that talks more about what it is as a country than war," says Goshen College alumn and Mennonite Rachel Guedea.
So the anthem won't be heard at any more games there.
This week, the board of directors asked the college president to find an alternative to playing the song.
"I basically think there comes a time when you need to say, this is what I think: You don't have to agree with me, but I don't change my beliefs because it makes you more comfortable," says Guedea.
On campus the issue was divisive, which is one of the reasons college leaders made the decision to do something else.
For disabled American veteran Charles Harrell, “The Star Spangled Banner” has a special meaning. It isn't about putting country above God. Instead, Harrell says it is about honoring the country and recognizing those who keep it free.
"I think you are just paying tribute to the men who didn't come home and those who have served. That is an honor. And you shouldn't forget," says Harrell.
The board issued a statement on their decision.
"…resolved that the board is committed to advancing with President Brenneman the vision for Goshen College to be recognized as an influential leader in liberal arts education with a growing capacity to serve a theologically, politically, racially and ethically diverse constituency both with and beyond the Mennonite Church.
"As a result of a thoughtful, thorough, prayerful period of listening, learning and discerning, it is the board's judgment that continuing to play the national anthem compromises our ability to advance the vision together. As a result, the president should find an alternative to playing the national anthem that fits with sports tradition that honors the country that resonates with our core values and that respects the views of diverse constituencies."
The president will be looking for an alternative to the national anthem, which should be in place by the fall semester.
