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Milwaukee Choir Honors the Legacy of James Weldon Johnson at the NFL Draft

By Rufus E. Jones, Jr.

Co-founder and President, James Weldon Johnson Foundation

Rufus E. Jones, Jr.
Rufus E. Jones, Jr.



As Co-founder and President of the James Weldon Johnson Foundation, it brings me great pride to see the spirit and significance of "Lift Every Voice and Sing" honored on such a national stage, and captured so thoughtfully by journalist Drake Bentley in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.


The Milwaukee choir’s performance at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay was more than just a musical moment; it was a living tribute to the vision, resilience, and artistry of James Weldon Johnson and his brother J. Rosamond Johnson.


Written in 1899, with lyrics by James Weldon Johnson and music by J. Rosamond Johnson, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" was first performed in 1900 as a tribute to President Abraham Lincoln. Originally copyrighted as the "National Hymn for the Colored People of America," the song quickly transcended its origins to become a powerful anthem for the broader American ideals of freedom, justice, and unity. Today, it continues to inspire and unite people across generations and communities, standing as a timeless call to the nation's highest values.


Drake Bentley’s article does an excellent job contextualizing the historical roots of this hymn and emphasizing why it remains so deeply meaningful today. Notably, he highlights the contributions of both James Weldon Johnson and J. Rosamond Johnson, a detail that honors the full creative collaboration behind this enduring work. Bentley also incorporates remarks from Representative James Clyburn, further emphasizing "Lift Every Voice and Sing" as a symbol of hope, dignity, and perseverance.


The choir’s heartfelt performance and the thoughtful attention given to it by the press reflect the living impact of James Weldon Johnson’s legacy, a legacy the Foundation is committed to preserving, celebrating, and advancing.


I encourage everyone to read this excellent piece and reflect on the continuing power of "Lift Every Voice and Sing."


Read the full article here:

Or Download the PDF here







Rufus E. Jones, Jr.

Co-founder and President, James Weldon Johnson Foundation

 
 
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