Lady Antebellum drops 'Antebellum' from group's name, becomes Lady A
"Causing pain was never our hearts’ intention."
Lady Antebellum is making a major change in hopes of fostering inclusivity and equality for all of the group's fans.
The trio announced on social media Thursday they're dropping the word "Antebellum," and now will go by Lady A.
The term "antebellum" refers to the period of American Southern history before the Civil War, which included slavery.
The band members -- Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood -- explained they originally chose the name Lady Antebellum because it reminded them of the Southern-born artists that influenced their music and an architectural style. However, they didn't realize at the time the term would be painful to many of their listeners.
"We are deeply sorry for the hurt this has caused and for anyone who has felt unsafe, unseen or unvalued," they wrote. "Causing pain was never our hearts' intention, but it doesn't change the fact that indeed, it did just that. So today, we speak up and make a change. We hope you will dig in and join us."
Lady A's decision comes in the wake of the ongoing global protests against racism and police brutality.
The movement was galvanized by the May 25 death of George Floyd, who died when former police officer Derek Chauvin pressed a knee into Floyd's neck for nearly nine minutes. Chauvin has since been charged with second- and third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter.
