LOUISVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — Churchill Downs has announced the long-standing tradition of playing "My Old Kentucky Home" before the Kentucky Derby will continue but with a few changes.
After careful consideration, My Old Kentucky Home will be played this year prior to the @KentuckyDerby; however, the 100-year tradition of singing the state song of Kentucky has been thoughtfully & appropriately modified & will be preceded by a moment of silence and reflection.
— Churchill Downs PR (@DerbyMedia) September 4, 2020
The decision comes amid heightened tensions in Louisville and the United States over social justice issues. "My Old Kentucky Home" has long been scrutinized because of its lyrics, which detractors say diminishes the human suffering of slavery.
