A Severe and Constant Struggle

From the time of Washington to today, We have been in a "severe and constant struggle" For America to be America again. We have been hindered, but not stopped, Chained but not bound, Beaten but not killed, dying, but we live; And in afflictions and many distresses, In prison and in much necessity, The Souls of Black Folk refuse to die; While there is life, there is hope. From the time of Washington to today, We have had a "severe and constant struggle" For a generation of possibilities. We have been sorrowful, but always rejoicing, Dishonored, but always honorable, Weakened, but always strong, Poor, but possessing all things, And with tears and many fastings, With infirmities and watchings, The Crisis caused faith to draw nigh. The noose vanished from the rope. From the time of Washington to today, We have been in a "severe and constant struggle" For rights and privileges without his compromise. We have been ignored, but now recognized, Defamed, but now praised, Disapproved, but now commended, Cast down, but we're lifted up, And in patience and in the quiet, In the power and in riots, Let the Trumpet Sound with a loud cry, While the Talented Tenth break the yoke. From the time of Washington to today, We have fought the good fight; We have waded and walked on water, And we have overcome! Because we give a "severe and constant struggle" For America to be America again.