“Lift Every Voice and Sing” Symposium
Join us on June 12, 2025, for a special symposium honoring the 125th anniversary of “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” This hymn is laden with biblical and theological themes and is deeply rooted in African American cultural heritage, spirit, and unity. Originally written by poet and educator James Weldon Johnson, the hymn was first performed in 1900 to mark Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. Widely recognized and celebrated across generations, it is often referred to as “The Black National Anthem” and has become a timeless expression of hope, memory, and honor.
This one-day program brings together renowned scholars, musicians, and artists for a dynamic exploration of the hymn’s origins and lasting cultural impact. Through inspiring dialogue, moving performances, and thoughtful reflection, we’ll celebrate the powerful legacy of a song that continues to uplift and unite.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of culture, history, and community.
This event is dedicated in memory of Dr. David Daniels.
Jun 12, 2025 - Jun 12, 2025
8:30 AM - 8:30 PM EDT
Gathering Room, World Stage Theater
In Person Event
Virtual Event
Symposium Home | Speakers | Schedule | Art Submission | Writing Submission
Participants will experience a blend of keynote lectures, panel discussions, and engaging art sessions that highlight the significance of song, storytelling, and performance in community building. The event will also feature several art displays and a series of powerful musical performances, including both choir and solo acts, that reflect diverse cultural voices and historical legacies.
Morning Keynote: "Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Muse behind the Music"
Speaker: Theodore Thorpe
“Lift Every Voice and Sing: The Muse behind the Music” gives insight into the historical significance and cultural relevance of the anthem. This interactive session is designed to awaken a greater understanding and appreciation of its original composition and why it is still performed today. Unpacking each verse through singing and listening, we will discuss both the idiomatic and non-idiomatic musical influences that shaped the melodic/harmonic choices of John Rosamond Johnson and future settings by Black composers and arrangers. We will also discuss the poetic journey James Weldon Johnson wanted us to take with his purposeful intention to the text.
Get Tickets
Full-Day Tickets | 8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
In-Person: $39.99
Virtual: $29.99
Members and Students: $14.99
Partial-Day Tickets | 12:00–8:30 p.m.
(In-Person Only)
In-Person: $24.99
Members: $9.99
Evening Tickets | 5:30–8:30 p.m.
(In-Person Only)
In-Person: $14.99
Members: $9.99
Symposium Home | Speakers | Schedule | Art Submission | Writing Submission