
Voices only: Lift Every Voice
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‘The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freedmen are advised to remain quietly at their present homes and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”
On June 19, 1865, Union Gen. Gordon Granger read the words of General Order 3 to the people of Galveston, Texas.
One hundred fifty-five years later, in the midst of a global pandemic and racial tension, we celebrate Juneteenth — a cappella style, of course.
First up, here’s a VERY 1980s rendition of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by the one and only Acappella.
The timeless spiritual “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” also is a part of Juneteenth celebrations. Here’s an a cappella rendition by Robert Robinson that really pulled at our heartstrings.
Got a suggestion for Voices only? Post video links in the comments.
A monument with the words of General Order 3 stands at the George Washington Carver Museum in Austin, Texas. Sculptors are Adrienne Rison Isom and Eddie Dixon. Photo license details.
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