A Stereotype's No Match for Truth Observed: the Fisk Jubilee Singers

A Stereotype's No Match for Truth Observed: the Fisk Jubilee Singers What happens when a group of young people is asked to save a school with little more than their voices? In 1871, Fisk University faced a crisis. Founded just a few years after the Civil War to educate formerly enslaved people, the school was nearly bankrupt. Buildings were deteriorating, funding was scarce, and closure seemed increasingly likely. In response, a group of students set out on an ambitious fundraising tour that would change not only the future of their school, but also the future of American music. In this episode of Remind My Soul, Michael Lawrence-Riddell and Akrobatik explore the story of the Fisk Jubilee Singers. From hostile crowds and financial uncertainty to packed churches, international acclaim, and performances before presidents and royalty, the singers carried spirituals born in slavery to audiences around the world. Along the way, they challenged racist assumptions, helped secure the future of Black education, and introduced generations of listeners to one of America's greatest cultural traditions. The episode also features an excerpt from The Truth Is Powerful, Self-Evident Education's short documentary about Sojourner Truth, whose belief in the transformative power of voice and storytelling provides a powerful connection to the Fisk Jubilee Singers' story. In This Episode Juneteenth, freedom, and the pursuit of education after emancipation The founding of Fisk University during Reconstruction Ella Shepard and the origins of the Fisk Jubilee Singers George Leonard White's vision for preserving and sharing spirituals The fundraising tours that saved Fisk University The role of spirituals in preserving culture and community memory The Fisk Jubilee Singers' impact on American music and culture Connections between spirituals, gospel, blues, jazz, R&B, and hip-hop Featured Film Excerpt The Truth Is Powerful A Self-Evident Education film created in collaboration with Rainlake. Hosts Michael Lawrence-Riddell Filmmaker, educator, and Executive Director of Self-Evident Education Akrobatik Educator, emcee, and host Written By Michael Lawrence-Riddell Courtney Gilbert Original Verse Akrobatik (featuring music from 8bza) Sources & Further Reading Andrew Ward, Dark Midnight When I Rise: The Story of the Jubilee Singers Fisk University Special Collections and Archives Fisk University History and Jubilee Singers Archives Library of Congress collections on African American spirituals Jubilee Singers historical materials and correspondence National Museum of African American History and Culture Learn More Explore documentary films, curriculum resources, and professional learning opportunities at: www.selfevidenteducation.com Music Credits This episode features music from 8bza and Blue Dot Sessions: "Lofoten" "Bauxite" "The Consulate" "Bakti" "The Extension" "Lacaille" Music provided by Blue Dot Sessions. https://www.sessions.blue Connect With Us Website: www.selfevidenteducation.com Email: [email protected] Follow Self-Evident Education for new episodes, films, curriculum resources, and upcoming events. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, subscribe, and share it with a friend.