This weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to meet Benjamin L. Smith, a skilled American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, who gave a moving performance by signing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Witnessing this powerful moment reminded me of the profound impact accessibility has in uniting and uplifting communities.
James Weldon Johnson’s “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” carries deep cultural and historical significance. When signed in ASL, it transcends barriers, enabling millions of deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to fully experience the song’s emotional resonance and message of hope and resilience.
Accessibility has always been a cornerstone of our mission at the James Weldon Johnson Foundation. Our goal is to ensure that the legacy of James Weldon Johnson reaches and inspires people from all backgrounds and abilities. There are an estimated 11 million people in the United States who rely on ASL services, and it is essential that cultural and educational institutions prioritize universal access.
Benjamin’s performance is a testament to the power of inclusion. It highlights how expanding access to the arts and culture can create a more connected and equitable world. Through initiatives like this, we aim to foster environments where everyone can engage with history, literature, and music—not just as spectators but as active participants in preserving and advancing cultural heritage.
As we continue our work, we are committed to integrating more accessibility measures into our programs and events. Whether through ASL interpretation, captioning, or other services, we strive to create spaces that reflect the diversity and richness of the communities we serve.
We are deeply inspired by individuals like Benjamin L. Smith, whose dedication to accessibility brings Johnson’s message to new audiences. This experience has reaffirmed our mission to make cultural preservation and education universally accessible.
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