State song; designate "One Mississippi" as official.
Impact
The passing of HB 1487 will impact state laws concerning state symbols and cultural references, formally recognizing a new piece of music that many residents may feel is more representative of Mississippi today. By repealing the old designation, the bill not only signifies a shift in cultural expression but also empowers the official state song to reflect the evolving values and sentiments of Mississippians. This change is likely to be celebrated at state events and can affect educational content regarding state history and pride.
Summary
House Bill 1487 is a legislative action taken by the Mississippi Legislature to designate the song 'One Mississippi,' written by Steve Azar, as the official state song. The bill also repeals an earlier law that established 'Go Mississippi' as the official state song back in 1962. This legislation reflects a desire to update state symbols to better align with contemporary cultural identity, promoting music that resonates with the current sentiment of the state's populace. The change is expected to instill pride and a sense of unity among the citizens of Mississippi through a song that is viewed as a celebration of their collective identity.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1487 appears to be generally positive, as there is a sense of celebration associated with adopting a new state song that has local cultural significance. While there may be some nostalgia for the previous official song, the push for 'One Mississippi' expresses a broader, more inclusive identity aimed at unity within the state. The general commentary around the bill seems to promote a collective pride in Mississippi's culture, marking a favorable reception among the legislative committee and the public.
Contention
Despite the overall positive sentiment, there may be minor contention regarding the transition between the two songs. Some individuals may feel a sense of loss regarding the original state song, raising questions about the importance of historical symbols versus contemporary expressions. Additionally, discussions may center around the selection process of state symbols and whether it adequately represents all demographics within Mississippi. However, the legislative action seems to lean towards a unified identity that is currently perceived as more relevant.