Jacksonville, FL, January 22, 2026
The Friends of Brentwood Public Library are celebrating the 126th anniversary of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ with a series of community events from February 7 to 21. These events highlight the song’s historical importance and foster community engagement through competitions, exhibitions, and performances, echoing the resilience of Jacksonville’s neighborhoods.
Jacksonville, FL: Brentwood Public Library Celebrates 126 Years of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’
Commemorating a Cultural Anthem Through Engaging Community Events
Jacksonville, FL – The Friends of Brentwood Public Library are gearing up to honor the 126th anniversary of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” with a dynamic series of events running from February 7 to February 21, 2026. This celebration will not only spotlight the song’s historical significance but will also reinforce the vibrancy of Jacksonville’s community engagement and cultural heritage.
Organized by local leaders, this initiative demonstrates how reduced bureaucracy can lead to meaningful events that foster both personal initiative and community collaboration. Such an effort reflects the resilience of Jacksonville’s neighborhoods, highlighting how community-driven projects can thrive and offer enriching experiences for all residents.
Event Schedule
- Saturday, February 7, 2026: James Weldon Johnson & J. Rosamond Johnson Piano Youth Competition (ages 7-18). This competitive platform allows young pianists to celebrate their musical talents while honoring the song’s enduring legacy.
- Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.: Reception and The Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition: “Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence.” This exhibition provides a historical context of women’s suffrage and explores its impact on the 19th Amendment.
- Wednesday, February 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m.: Meet & Greet Reception/Symposium Discussion: “Our Democracy and the Ballot,” emphasizing discussions around James Weldon Johnson’s influential work from 1923.
- Sunday, February 15, at 10:30 a.m.: World Day of Worship at St. John’s Cathedral Jacksonville, featuring a sermon on “Acknowledging the Past and Triumph Over Struggle.”
- Sunday, February 15, at 2:00 p.m.: Community Family Fun Day at the Ritz Theatre and Museum, promising activities designed for families.
- Sunday, February 15, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.: Performance of “God’s Trombones” at the Ritz Theatre and Museum, delivering a compelling theatrical experience.
- Friday, February 20, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.: “Lift Every Voice and Sing” Children’s Choir Tribute, featuring a performance of spirituals, scriptures, poetry, and quotes from James Weldon Johnson.
- Saturday, February 21, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.: Heritage Bus Tour exploring key sites in African American history across Duval, Nassau, and St. John’s Counties, including stops at American Beach and Kingsley Plantation.
Understanding the Legacy of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’
Originally penned by James Weldon Johnson in 1900 and set to music by his brother J. Rosamond Johnson, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” debuted with a powerful performance featuring 500 students in Jacksonville. This song has emerged as a cornerstone of African American culture, often regarded as the “Black national anthem.” The themes of hope, resilience, and unity embedded in its lyrics continue to inspire, especially during Black History Month celebrations.
Opportunities for Community Engagement
The extensive schedule of events emphasizes a communal approach to learning and reflection, offering various opportunities for involvement. From competitions that foster young talent to exhibitions that delve into critical historical themes, there is something for everyone in the Jacksonville community to engage with and support.
Exploring the Significance of Local Involvement
This celebration not only honors a culturally significant piece of music but also serves as a testament to what local groups can achieve through partnerships and shared leadership. Observers can appreciate how such initiatives can cultivate civic pride and foster a deeper understanding of history, serving as a collective reminder of Jacksonville’s rich cultural tapestry.
Joining the Celebration: How to Participate
Conclusion: Be a Part of Jacksonville’s Cultural Vibrancy
As Jacksonville prepares for a vibrant celebration of “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” residents are encouraged to actively participate in these enriching events. This is not just a celebration of a song, but also a meaningful acknowledgment of our city’s deep-rooted history and cultural narrative. Join in on the festivities, support local initiatives, and stay engaged in the ongoing development of Jacksonville’s dynamic community.
FAQ
What is the significance of ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’?
‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ is a hymn written in 1900 by James Weldon Johnson and set to music by his brother, J. Rosamond Johnson. It has become a significant anthem in African American culture, often referred to as the ‘Black national anthem.’ Its themes of hope and resilience continue to resonate, making it a central piece in Black History Month celebrations.
When and where will the 126th anniversary events take place?
The events will be held from February 7 to February 21, 2026, at various locations in Jacksonville, Florida, including the Brentwood Public Library, St. John’s Cathedral Jacksonville, the Ritz Theatre and Museum, and other venues across the city.
How can I participate in the events?
Participation details, including registration and ticketing information, can be found on the official website at www.jwjlifteveryvoice.com. It’s recommended to check the website regularly for updates and specific event details.
Is there an admission fee for the events?
Admission fees vary by event. Some events are free, while others may require a ticket purchase. Please refer to the official website for the most current information on each event’s admission policy.
Who can I contact for more information?
For further inquiries, please visit the official website at www.jwjlifteveryvoice.com or contact the Friends of Brentwood Public Library directly through the contact information provided on the website.
Key Features of the 126th Anniversary Celebration
| Event | Date and Time | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| James Weldon Johnson & J. Rosamond Johnson Piano Youth Competition | Saturday, February 7, 2026 | Brentwood Public Library | Competition for young pianists aged 7-18 to showcase their talents. |
| Reception and Smithsonian Exhibition: ‘Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence’ | Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. | Brentwood Public Library | Exhibition exploring the history of women’s suffrage and the 19th Amendment. |
| Meet & Greet Reception/Symposium Discussion: ‘Our Democracy and the Ballot’ | Wednesday, February 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. | Brentwood Public Library | Discussion on James Weldon Johnson’s 1923 work and its relevance today. |
| World Day of Worship | Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. | St. John’s Cathedral Jacksonville | Sermon titled ‘Acknowledging the Past and Triumph Over Struggle.’ |
| Community Family Fun Day | Sunday, February 15, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. | Ritz Theatre and Museum | Family-friendly activities and entertainment. |
| Performance of ‘God’s Trombones’ | Sunday, February 15, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. | Ritz Theatre and Museum | Theatrical presentation of ‘God’s Trombones.’ |
| ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ Children’s Choir Tribute | Friday, February 20, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. | Brentwood Public Library | Children’s choir performance featuring spirituals, scriptures, poetry, and quotes from James Weldon Johnson. |
| Heritage Bus Tour | Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | Various locations across Duval, Nassau, and St. John’s Counties | Tour exploring African American history, including visits to American Beach, Kingsley Plantation, Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center, and the Civil Rights Trail. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
