Today In Black History
The "Black National Anthem"
Issue #485 Today In Black History, Friday, February 2, 2024
Today’s Black History WOW!
Photo Credit: Yale Online
J. Rosamond Johnson (1873-1954) and his brother, James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) were born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida when Jim Crow policies were prevalent.
James Weldon Johnson was a visionary writer who used his words to shed light on the African American experience. He served as the first African American executive secretary of the NAACP, where he tirelessly fought for civil rights and justice. His work spanned across various genres, including poetry, novels, and essays.
J. Rosamond Johnson was a gifted musician and composer. His talent for creating melodies that captured the essence of the African American spirit was unparalleled. He composed scores for Broadway shows and collaborated with his brother James on numerous projects, showcasing their shared commitment to uplifting their community through their art.
Their collaboration on the iconic hymn "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" became their most enduring legacy. Originally written as a poem by James Weldon Johnson in 1900, "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" was set to music by J. Rosamond Johnson, transforming it into a powerful anthem that would soon be hailed as the "Black National Anthem." Schoolchildren in Jacksonville, Florida originally performed it to celebrate the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln.
Its lyrics speak of resilience, hope, and the unyielding spirit of the African-American people who were less than two generations from the end of slavery when the poem and song were written.
In recognition of its significance, "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing" was officially adopted as the Negro National Anthem by the NAACP in 1919. This designation solidified its place in history and established its importance within the African American community.
Now known as the “Black National Anthem,” it is sung nationally and internationally at church services, conferences, and major events around the world, including the Olympics, the Super Bowl, and concerts featuring renowned artists. Its lyrics, which call for unity, liberation, and justice, serve as a poignant reminder of the long journey toward equality and the ongoing fight for civil rights.
When “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing” is performed, Black people respectfully stand during the singing, just as they do during the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Every time the song is performed at venues that include white people, some of them complain that there is only “one National Anthem,” deride its inclusion in the event, and disrespectfully stay seated while the song is sung. One conservative commentator actually called for the song to be. declared “illegal” because it sowed divisions between the races, in his opinion.
In 2021, Congressman Jim Clyburn of South Carolina sponsored a bill to name “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” as a national “hymn,” alongside the official National Anthem.
Although race is never mentioned, the lyrics and stirring melody of “Lift Ev’ry Voice And Sing” present a testament to the enduring strength, resilience, and beauty of the African American community and a reminder of the power of music to heal, inspire, and unite us all.
I get goosebumps every time I hear this song. Enjoy!
Today In Black History
- In 1862, slavery was abolished in the District of Columbia.
- In 1852, Afro-French novelist and playwright Alexandre Dumas premiered “La Dame aux Camelias” in Paris.
- In 1897, Black inventor Alfred L. Cralle was issued a patent for the “Ice Cream Mold and Disher,” otherwise known as the ice cream scoop.
- In 1948, President Harry Truman urged Congress to adopt a civil rights program.
- In 1971, General Idi Amin appointed himself President and Dictator of Uganda.
- In 1971, the Congressional Black Caucus was formed with Representative Charles C. Diggs, Jr. as its first Chair.
- In 2009, Eric Holder became the first Black U.S. Attorney General.
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