Topic: Black National Anthem
The Black National Anthem, also known as "Lift Every Voice and Sing," is a powerful and iconic song in Black history. It was written as a poem by James Weldon Johnson in 1900 and set to music by his brother, John Rosamond Johnson. Originally performed by a group of 500 school children in Jacksonville, Florida for Abraham Lincoln's birthday, the song quickly became a symbol of perseverance and hope for the Black community.
"Lift Every Voice and Sing" became widely adopted as an anthem for the civil rights movement and is often performed at events celebrating Black history and culture. The lyrics speak to the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans, calling for unity, strength, and resilience in the face of adversity.
The song's powerful message has resonated for over a century and continues to be a source of pride and inspiration for African Americans. In 2021, it was officially recognized by the U.S. government as the national hymn for African Americans.