NEW YORK (AP) — Sevyn Streeter and the Philadelphia 76ers have decided on a date for the singer to come back and perform the national anthem after the team didn’t allow her to sing wearing a “We Matter” jersey.
In statements to The Associated Press on Saturday, the Sixers and Streeter said she would perform wearing her “We Matter” jersey at the team’s Dec. 16 home game against the Los Angeles Lakers.
“After thoughtful conversation, the 76ers and Sevyn Streeter have worked together to develop a plan we hope will bring meaningful action in the Philadelphia Community,” the team’s statement read.
Streeter was supposed to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” on Oct. 26 in Philadelphia, but was told before the game she could not sing the anthem. The team later apologized.
“I have accepted their apology,” Streeter said. “In order to move forward, it was important to me that we take action and use this as an opportunity to create positive change and dialogue throughout the community.”
She said she and the team plan to “work together through multiple community outreach programs to promote inclusion and acceptance.”
The Sixers said they plan to make a donation to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.
Streeter has written songs for Chris Brown and Ariana Grande and had a hit with “It Won’t Stop” in 2013.
PHILADELPHIA 76ERS STATEMENT
“After thoughtful conversation, the 76ers and Sevyn Streeter have worked together to develop a plan we hope will bring meaningful action to the Philadelphia community. Sevyn has accepted our offer to return to perform the national anthem on Friday, December 16th vs. the Los Angeles Lakers. She will also be joining the organization in our ongoing efforts in the community by partnering with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia. Additionally, the Sixers will make a donation to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia.”
SEVYN STREETER STATEMENT:
“After a meaningful dialogue with the 76ers organization, I have accepted their apology. In order to move forward, it was important to me that we take action and use this as an opportunity to create positive change and dialogue throughout the community. The Sixers and I plan to work together through multiple community outreach programs to promote inclusion and acceptance. Our first initiative will be with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Philadelphia, to whom they are graciously making a donation. I am also looking forward to returning to Philadelphia in December to perform the national anthem wearing my ‘We Matter’ jersey at the 76ers game vs. the Los Angeles Lakers.”
