Country group Dixie Chicks changed their name Thursday to simply The Chicks due to the word's connection to a Civil War-era song linked to the Confederacy.
Why it matters: It comes amid a nationwide cultural shift, which has seen governments, companies and individuals around the country rethink names and symbols with links to racism.
- While Dixie is a nickname for the South generally, "Dixie" is also a song that became popular via minstrel shows in the 1850s — ultimately becoming a de facto anthem of the Confederacy.
What they're saying: The band made no formal announcement about the change, but their website includes the simple note, "We want to meet this moment."
- It coincided with the release of a new song called "March March."
The big picture: They're not the first country group to change their name as a result of the nationwide protests against systemic racism. Lady Antebellum became Lady A earlier this month because of the word's connection to slavery.
