I attended an all white parochial Christian elementary school and as such, did not learn the Negro National Athem until much later in life. But, I remember going to my cousins' school programs where it along with My Country Tis of Thee was always sung in lieu of the National Anthem. I have always wondered why until today.
After voting yesterday, My Country Tis of Thee rang in my ears most of the evening. So, I thought it would be great to post Marian Anderson singing it in front of the Lincoln Memorial. In finding the video, I came across some amazing historical information that connected the dots! You see, My Country Tis of Thee is an anti-slavery hymn. I encourage all Sojourners visiting here today to go here to read the the original versus of this hymn. It will bring tears to your eyes. Now, I know why this song was sung...We must know our past in order to understand our present and be ready for our future.
Below, is Marian Anderson singing My Country Tis of Thee. I strongly suggest that you listen in a quiet and serene place as you hear FDR's introductory remarks. Reflect on the events that brought us to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial that day. Remember the events that occurred following that day. Be inspired by the prospect of the events that will occur in the days to come.
The following are verses three and four of the original version of My Country Tis of Thee
Let wailing swell the breeze,
And ring from all the trees,
The black man’s wrong;
Let every tongue awake,
Let bond and free partake,
Let rocks their silence break,
The sound prolong.
Our Father’s God! To thee,
Author of Liberty,
To thee we sing;
Soon may our land be bright,
With holy freedom’s right,
Protect us by they might,
Great God, our King.
Obliged to you for hearing me,
and now old SjP ain't got nothin' more to say...
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