LCPA Students Perform At Chiefs Home Opener

Kansas City Boys & Girls Choir at the Chiefs Season opener performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing”. Photo Courtesy of KCBCGC Facebook.

Lincoln College Prep students who participated in the Kansas City Boys and Girls Choir had the opportunity to perform the song, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by James Johnson at Arrowhead Stadium during the Chief ’s season Home Opener. 

“It was an experience. I’ve been singing in the choir for a few years now, but this was by far the biggest audience I’ve ever performed for,” sophomore Sydney Ramsey said. “It was also incredibly meaningful to be singing such a powerful song, especially at a time when our country is still struggling with racism and injustice.”

 “It was a huge honor to be able to share this song with the Kansas City community,” sophomore Ta’Yon McCoy. “I felt so much pride and unity. It was a reminder that we are all in this together and that we can overcome any challenge if we work together.” 

The song is a hymn with lyrics from the late 19th century and is a prayer for freedom and faithfulness. “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was communally sung within Black American communities and was promoted by the NAACP as a “Black National Anthem”. 

The song’s prominence has increased since 2020 following the George Floyd protests, and in 2021, then-House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn sponsored a bill proposing that “Lift Every Voice and Sing” be designated as the national hymn of the United States. 

Here at Lincoln Prep, the students sing “Life Every Voice and Sing” before different events to celebrate and remember the history behind this powerful song. 

Lincoln students having the privilege to sing this song showcases the importance of learning and appreciating black culture, especially during a time when our country is struggling with systemic racism and injustice. “I think it’s a really important sign of progress. It shows that our country is finally starting to recognize and celebrate Black culture and history,” Ramsey said. 

“It also sends a message to young Black people that they are valued and respected, and that they have a place in our society.” “I also think it’s important for all students to be able to learn about and appreciate Black culture,” McCoy said. “Singing ‘Lift Every Voice and Sing’ is one way to do that. It’s a song that teaches us about the resilience and strength of the Black community. It also inspires us to work for a more just and equitable world.” 

Using music and arts as a way to spread awareness about the discrimination plaguing our country sends a message to young Black people that they are valued and that they have a place in our society. 

“I would say go for it. Music and the arts are such powerful ways to express yourself and connect with others,” Ramsey said. “They can also be a lot of fun. If you’re interested in getting involved, there are many different ways to do so. You can join a choir or band, take art classes, or even start your own creative project.” 

“Don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone”, McCoy said. “You never know what you might be capable of until you try. So go out there and explore your creative passions.”

View the Kansas City Boys & Girls Choir Performance of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” at the Chiefs Season Home Opener here: