A Chicago mariachi band says its historic national anthem performance at a Chicago Bears game was followed by racist and hostile comments online.
Mariachi Herencia de México performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Soldier Field on Monday night as the Bears hosted the Philadelphia Eagles. The appearance marked the first time a mariachi ensemble had performed the national anthem at a Bears game.
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The group, which has received two Latin Grammy nominations, was featured as part of the Bears’ “Vamos Bears” celebration. The event highlighted Latino heritage and took place during Hispanic Heritage Month.
The celebration drew plenty of attention online, but not all of it was positive.
Members of the ensemble said some social-media users directed racist remarks at the musicians after video of their performance was posted online. Other commenters criticized the Bears for featuring a Mexican American group during the game.
Cesar Maldonado, the band’s creator and producer, said the musicians wanted their performance to carry a message of unity. He emphasized that the 14 performers were focused on delivering the national anthem with professionalism and respect.
The musicians also wanted their arrangement to make an impact inside the massive stadium. Maldonado said the trumpet section was given special emphasis so the instruments could project throughout Soldier Field.
According to Maldonado, the crowd’s reaction made the effort worthwhile.
Singer and violinist Roberto Duenas described the experience as a mixture of nerves and excitement. He said performing the anthem before thousands of people was an honor and a significant moment for the group.
The Bears added several other elements to the Latino heritage celebration. Alison Segarra of Amundsen High School and Alejandro Gonzalez of Dundee-Crown were selected as honorary captains and joined the Bears captains at midfield for the opening coin toss.
Fans also received “Vamos Bears” flags at stadium entrances.
The ensemble has deep connections to Chicago. Maldonado said several musicians came from a mariachi program once offered through Chicago Public Schools, while others have roots in Mexico or different parts of the United States.
The current group has 14 members between 19 and 34 years old.
This was not the band’s first major Chicago sports appearance. The musicians previously performed at Soldier Field during halftime and sang the national anthem at a Cubs game earlier this year.
Despite the criticism, Maldonado said the group remains focused on its music. The musicians are currently traveling across the country as part of their tour.
