OXFORD, MISS– It was once said that in life, death and taxes were guaranteed. And before Friday, a rendition of “Dixie” being played at Ole Miss on game-day could have been added to the list of guarantees.
But not anymore. The university has nixed the song from its traditional spot. Athletic Director Ross Bjork told local media the decision came to find something new and modern that would include all of Ole Miss’ fan base.
“Because the Pride of the South is such a large part of our overall experience and tradition,” said Bjork. “The Athletics Department asked them to create a new and modern pregame show that does not include Dixie and is more inclusive for all fans.”
“Dixie” had been making fewer appearances over the years, given the ties to the Confederate era; especially after former Chancellor Dan Jones asked for “From Dixie with Love” to be removed from the set list after students refused to stop chanting “The South will rise again,” in an incident in 2009.
