The great Kate Smith debate

Let the Great Kate Smith debate begin.

By now you probably know that the Flyers first covered up, then removed entirely the statue of Kate Smith that sat at the South Philly sports complex for decades.

Smith became something of the Flyers' good luck charm with her rendition of "God Bless America," which started in 1969 and rocketed to fame in an electric moment in the Stanley Cup finals vs. the Boston Bruins.

The Flyers followed the lead of the New York Yankees in cutting ties to the "Songbird of the South" after the discovery of some most troubling lyrics in songs she performed.

This is not an easy one. It was a long time ago, the '30s to be exact. Do we really want to hold everyone accountable for actions that took place decades ago?

The Flyers now find themselves under siege, facing harsh criticism for their decision to put Smith in the penalty box.

They handled it clumsily. First covering the statue with that shroud was a mistake.

But they still made the right call.

You can read our editorial here.

And if you disagree, by all means feel free.

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