Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park is currently under construction in the historic LaVilla neighborhood in Jacksonville, Florida. When completed, the Park will honor two of Jacksonville’s most famous residents, James Weldon Johnson and John Rosamond Johnson. The Johnson brothers wrote “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” often called the Black National Anthem, at their home in the LaVilla neighborhood between 1900 and 1905.
A project of the City of Jacksonville Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services, Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park was designed by world-renowned MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant” recipient Walter Hood. The park incorporates elements of the Johnson brothers’ and LaVilla’s cultural and built history while making space for a more inclusive future.
The vision for Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing park comes after years of planning, input meetings, and discussions with community stakeholders about how to best revitalize LaVilla, a once bustling and vibrant neighborhood alive with arts, culture, and entrepreneurship.
When opened, Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park will be a destination for residents and visitors to learn about Jacksonville’s dynamic history and participate in programs and activities that allow everyone to feel they belong. It is our hope that Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing Park will be the beginning of a much larger LaVilla Heritage Trail in Jacksonville.