Bernice Johnson Reagon Obituary – Cause of Death : Bernice Johnson Reagon, Civil Rights Activist and Scholar, Passes Away at 81

It is with heavy hearts that we report the passing of Civil rights activist and scholar, Bernice Johnson Reagon, at the age of 81. A proud alumna of Albany State University, Spelman College, and Howard University, Reagon was a trailblazer in the fight for equality and justice.

Reagon was best known for her role as the founder of the #SNCC Freedom Singers and the iconic a cappella group, Sweet Honey in the Rock. Her powerful voice and unwavering commitment to social change inspired generations of activists and musicians alike.

In addition to her musical contributions, Reagon was also a respected educator, serving as emeritus faculty at American University and scholar-in-residence at Stanford University. Her teachings and writings on African American history and culture have left a lasting impact on academia and beyond.

While the details surrounding Reagon’s passing are still unclear, her legacy as a champion for civil rights and social justice will continue to live on. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and all those who were touched by her incredible work.

Bernice Johnson Reagon may no longer be with us, but her spirit and passion for equality will forever be remembered. Rest in power, sister.

Civil rights activist and scholar Bernice Johnson Reagon passed away at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of music, activism, and education. As an alumna of Albany State University, Spelman College, and Howard University, Reagon dedicated her life to fighting for social justice and equality. She was the founder of the SNCC Freedom Singers and the iconic a cappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock. With a career that spanned decades, Reagon was a trailblazer in the civil rights movement and a respected scholar in the field of African American studies.

Who was Bernice Johnson Reagon?

Bernice Johnson Reagon was born in 1942 in Albany, Georgia, where she grew up surrounded by the rich tradition of African American music and culture. She attended Albany State University, where she became involved in the civil rights movement and joined the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC). Reagon’s powerful voice and passion for social justice made her a prominent figure in the movement, and she soon became known for her role in the SNCC Freedom Singers.

What was the SNCC Freedom Singers?

The SNCC Freedom Singers were a group of young activists who used music as a tool for social change during the civil rights movement. Led by Bernice Johnson Reagon, the group traveled around the country performing traditional African American spirituals and protest songs at rallies, marches, and demonstrations. Their music inspired and uplifted audiences, and helped to spread the message of the civil rights movement to a wider audience.

What was Sweet Honey in the Rock?

After her time with the SNCC Freedom Singers, Reagon went on to found the a cappella group Sweet Honey in the Rock in 1973. The group’s unique blend of gospel, blues, jazz, and African music made them a beloved fixture in the world of music and activism. Sweet Honey in the Rock’s powerful lyrics and harmonious voices brought attention to issues of social justice, women’s rights, and African American history.

What was Bernice Johnson Reagon’s impact on education?

In addition to her work as a musician and activist, Reagon was also a respected scholar and educator. She served as a faculty member at American University and was a scholar-in-residence at Stanford University. Reagon’s research focused on African American music, culture, and history, and she was a leading voice in the field of African American studies. Her work helped to shape our understanding of the contributions of African Americans to American society.

As we mourn the loss of Bernice Johnson Reagon, we remember her as a pioneering figure in the civil rights movement and a tireless advocate for social justice. Her music and scholarship have left an indelible mark on our society, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Rest in power, Bernice Johnson Reagon.

Sources:
– New York Times
– NPR
– Washington Post