Singing Liberation: African American Youth, Music, and the Transformative Promise of Black Liberation Theology

This paper explores the liberative potential of music in the lives of African American youth through the lens of Black liberation theology. Historically, African American communities have utilized music to resist systemic racism and assert their humanity, from spirituals during slavery to contemporary gospel and hip-hop expressions. Theologically, the paper expands upon James Cone’s assertion of God's solidarity with the oppressed, arguing explicitly for the inclusion and centering of African American children's voices within theological discourse. Practically, the study demonstrates how music serves as a tool for spiritual expression, critical consciousness, and resilience-building among youth, highlighting specific examples such as youth gospel choirs and community-based music programs. Ultimately, the paper advocates for a theological praxis that empowers African American children, recognizing music’s profound potential to foster liberation, healing, and social transformation in the face of systemic injustice.