The Eyes of Texas

The Eyes of Texas is one of the University of Texas at Austin’s most recognizable traditions, being sung at nearly every university gathering and athletic event. However, the setting and culture in which the song debuted included systemic racial intent and links to minstrel traditions. As a result, the song carries a weight of racial history that continues to shape the University, its students, and the state.

 

Following the 2020 racial justice movement and calls from students, faculty, and alumni, the University of Texas at Austin convened the Eyes of Texas History Committee. Chaired by Dr. Richard Reddick and composed of diverse researchers, stakeholders, Longhorn Band members, and athletes, the Committee produced a report in March 2021 that investigated the song’s origins, context, and legacy. The Committee ultimately urged the University to foster open discussion about the song’s history, affirming that “conversations must continue so that every member of the Longhorn community can confront, understand, and engage with its complicated past.” In response to the Eyes of Texas History Committee’s findings and ongoing dialogue, additional perspectives, such as Dr. Alberto Martinez’s independent report, were also produced. In the spirit of encouraging dialogue and sharing this history, we invite those who are interested to explore and engage with both reports, linked below. In publishing this statement, Texas Orange Jackets aims to be part of the movement to contextualize this important history.

 

The Eyes of Texas remains the alma mater of the University of Texas at Austin. The University has emphasized the importance of continued reflection, education, and contextualization to better understand the song’s full history.

 

As official hosts of the University of Texas at Austin, Texas Orange Jackets’ history is interwoven with that of the Eyes of Texas. For many years, up until 2017, the Eyes of Texas was sung at weekly general meetings. Beginning in the 1990s, Texas Orange Jackets led the Eyes of Texas on the football field during home games, a role the organization maintained until 2020. That year, the tradition came to an end amid broader campus conversations surrounding social progress. In 2025, as expectations surrounding the tradition continued to evolve, Texas Orange Jackets engaged in a deliberate period of internal discussion that acknowledged the gravity of the decision before ultimately voting to resume engagement with the Eyes of Texas. At present, when requested by the University, Texas Orange Jackets members may lead the singing of the Eyes of Texas. Our organization holds this role of official hosts with a posture of care, respect, and a deep sense of responsibility to the Longhorn community.

 

At the same time, our organization recognizes and values the diverse opinions and experiences of our members and community. Grounded in an understanding of the song’s complex history, participation in leading and singing the Eyes of Texas is optional for all Texas Orange Jackets members. This decision was made thoughtfully and reflects our organization’s ongoing effort to engage critically and compassionately with both the University’s history and our own.

 

For Texas, We Will.

 

Read The Eyes of Texas Committee Report Here

Read Dr. Alberto Martínez’s report Here.