Civil Rights Icon Bernice Johnson Reagon Passes Away At 81 The co-founder of Sweet Honey in the Rock leaves behind a legacy of activism and musical excellenceDr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, a profound force in the civil rights movement and renowned musician, died on July 16 at the age of 81. She was instrumental in forming the Freedom Singers, a quartet dedicated to providing the soundtrack for the civil rights movement. As a curator at the Smithsonian, she developed educational programs about African American music, showcasing its vital role in the cultural landscape. Bernice Johnson Reagon’s life and legacy serve as a testament to the power of music as a catalyst for social change. In the wake of her passing, various artists and public figures have expressed their condolences, reflecting on the profound impact she had on the civil rights movement and the arts.

Source: New York Times July 30, 2024 01:03 UTC