Empire State Building Lights Up in Patriots Colors, Fans Fume
The Controversial Lighting
New Yorkers were not happy when the Empire State Building glowed red, white, and blue to celebrate the New England Patriots' AFC Championship win.
The iconic skyscraper, a symbol of New York City, lit up in the Patriots' colors, which didn't sit well with fans of the New York Jets and Giants.
The Official Announcement
The Empire State Building's official X account posted a video of the building glowing in Patriots colors, along with a message congratulating the team on their victory over the Denver Broncos.
"Santa Clara bound! Shining in @Patriots colors in honor of their AFC Championship win."
The Backlash
Social media erupted with anger and frustration.
- One user wrote:
"Wait, is this a joke? You are in New York! You think if the Jets won they would be lighting buildings up in green in Boston? I feel like I’m having a stroke."
- Another user simply commented:
"DISGRACE."
The backlash was swift and harsh, with many calling for the person responsible for the decision to be fired.
Previous Incidents
This isn't the first time the Empire State Building has honored a team outside of New York.
- Last year, it glowed green to celebrate the Philadelphia Eagles' NFC Championship win.
"I’m sorry I have to do this. Shining in @Eagles colors in honor of their NFC Championship win."
- The building also showed support for the Seattle Seahawks, who will face the Patriots in the Super Bowl.
The Debate
The decision to honor teams outside of New York has left many fans questioning the building's loyalty to local teams.
The Empire State Building has a history of lighting up for various events and celebrations, but this time, it seems to have hit a nerve with New Yorkers.
The decision to honor the Patriots, a team with a contentious history with New York teams, has sparked a heated debate among fans.
