July 19th 2024.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of beloved civil rights activist, musician, and scholar, Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon. According to her daughter, Toshi Reagon, Dr. Reagon passed away at the age of 81 on July 16, 2024. Toshi shared the news via Facebook, quoting her mother's powerful words: "I was here before I came, and when I die, I am not leaving…"
Born to Reverend Jesse Johnson and Beatrice Wise Johnson, Dr. Reagon dedicated over five decades of her life to fighting against racism and systemic inequalities on a global scale. As both a civil rights activist and musician, she often referred to herself as a "songtalker." In her own words, "These days, I come as 'songtalker,' one who balances talk and song in the creation of a live performance conversation with those who gather within the sound of my voice." Her journey as an activist began during the Albany Movement, where she sang and stood in solidarity with the congregational singing of the freedom songs that filled the air.
The influential civil rights activist and musician was born on October 4, 1942, in Dougherty County, Georgia. She later became a field secretary for the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) and co-founded the SNCC Freedom Singers in 1962. During her time at Howard University, Dr. Reagon established the renowned African American women's a cappella group, Sweet Honey In The Rock. Her illustrious career also included leadership roles at the Smithsonian Institution and a professorship at American University. Her contributions to the world of music and activism earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious MacArthur Foundation Genius Award and the Presidential Medal for her impact on the understanding of the humanities.
Throughout her life, Dr. Reagon seamlessly blended her roles as a civil rights activist, musician, and scholar, leaving an indelible mark on American culture and social justice movements. Her influence extended beyond activism and performance and into the realms of scholarship and media. Dr. Reagon spearheaded the creation of "Wade in the Water," a groundbreaking series on African American sacred music that was honored with a Peabody Award. Her expertise in cultural history was also showcased in projects such as Africans in America. In addition to her work in these fields, Dr. Reagon's talents also enriched the film industry, as she contributed to acclaimed productions such as the civil rights documentary Eyes on the Prize and the adaptation of Toni Morrison's novel, Beloved.
Plans for a public celebration of life will be announced in the near future. Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon's legacy will continue to live on through her remarkable achievements and her impact on the fight for equality and justice. She will be greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
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