Inaugural Celebration of The Black National Anthem
120 Years Of Celebrating Our Voices
The I’m A Star Foundation, the Jacksonville Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Duval County Public Schools, the Ritz Theatre and Museum and other organizations, proudly unite to present a celebration honoring the 120th anniversary of “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” by Jacksonville’s very own James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson.
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“Honoring the 120th anniversary of ‘Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing’ will highlight the major contributions the Johnson brothers had locally and nationwide. My hope is that we express our appreciation to them while educating a new generation on the impact and meaning of this great song” former State Senator and Co-Chair Tony Hill.
“I’m proud to celebrate ‘Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing’ on its 120th anniversary by James Weldon Johnson who publicly performed the song with 500 school children at the Stanton School while he served as principal. This song means a lot, there isn’t a lot of songs that last 120 years that has had a national impact and inspired countless generations” former School Board Member and Co-Chair Dr. Constance Hall.
The Coalition is planning a week-long of events recognizing Jacksonville rich history from February 9th thru February 13th.
Tuesday, February 4th—Duval County Public School Board to pass a resolution commemorating the occasion with a local school choir performing the song at 6pm. 1701 Prudential Drive., Jacksonville, FL 32207.
Sunday, February 9th— “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Sunday!” All churches, ministries, synagogues and faith communities are asked to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the song, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” by lifting your voices in unity in singing the song during your worship service or devotional time.
Tuesday, February 11th— Unveiling of the new mural at James Weldon Johnson College Preparatory Middle School—3276 Norman E. Thagard Blvd. Program begins at 6pm.
Jacksonville City Council to pass a resolution commemorating the occasion with Bethel Baptist Institutional Church choir performing the song at 5pm. 117 W. Duval Street., 1st Floor—Council Chamber
Wednesday, February 12th— Inaugural Celebration of the Black National Anthem “120 Years of Lifting Our Voices.” Community event at the Ritz Theatre and Museum—829 N. Davis Street. Program begins at 6pm.