Black Music Sunday: Bernice Johnson Reagon used music to mobilize

We lost a giant this month. Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, civil rights activist, songwriter, ethnomusicologist, author, and founder of musical ensemble Sweet Honey In The Rock, joined the ancestors on July 16 at the age of 81.

She may not have been a household name, but I would have had a hard time getting through many events that have taken place in my life without the strength she gave to me and others around me, imparted by her songs and the power of her voice. 

Music plays a key role in both personal and political struggles. It heals, uplifts, builds bridges, makes sorrow bearable, motivates, and inspires. Dr. Reagon knew that and lived it during her 60-year career.

For many years as an activist, I have used one of her quotes as my signature. It epitomizes my thoughts, ideals, practice, and goals:

“If you're in a coalition and you're comfortable, you know it's not a broad enough coalition.”

I described what I felt about that quote in 2009, about a year after I arrived here at Daily Kos. My feelings haven’t changed. I bless her memory today and everyday.

”Black Music Sunday” is a weekly series highlighting all things Black music, with over 220 stories covering performers, genres, history, and more, each featuring its own vibrant soundtrack. I hope you’ll find some familiar tunes and perhaps an introduction to something new.