The Voice of Freedom: From Harlem to Civil Rights

Concept and Creation by Destiny Coleman 

© Destiny Coleman, all rights reserved

First Performance

March 28, 2025

Melvin Van Peebles Symposium 

Ohio Wesleyan University  

The Voice of Freedom: From Harlem to Civil Rights is a powerful, multi-disciplinary performance that celebrates the depth and resilience of the African American experience through a blend of spoken word, historical texts, and music. Featuring three dynamic singers, a spoken word artist, and a pianist, the production weaves together classical, jazz, and iconic works from the Harlem Renaissance and Civil Rights movements. Themes of justice, community, and hope resonate throughout, offering audiences an emotional journey that sparks meaningful conversations about African American heritage and cultural identity.

As a tribute to the transformative power of art, The Voice of Freedom: From Harlem to Civil Rights underscores the political and social dimensions of creative expression. This performance serves as a beacon of reflection, unity, and empowerment.