James Weldon Johnson

James Weldon Johnson’s Ode to the “Deep River” of American History

by David W. Blight

A biographer of the poet, novelist and activist James Weldon Johnson considers his “St. Peter Relates an Incident of the Resurrection Day” as a reflection on the necessity of persistence and hope even amid dire times. 

Rep. James Clyburn Proposes To Make 'Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing' The National Hymn

Historian Lloyd Washington has worked to raise awareness among younger African Americans of the 1919 song that has served as the official song of the NAACP and the unofficial "Black National Anthem," and credits Beyonce for a performance that introduced the BLM generation to the song.