Gospel music has long been a powerful tool for African American resilience, serving as a source of strength, community, and spiritual upliftment. Rooted in the African American experience, particularly in the era of enslavement and segregation, gospel music has been a means of both survival and resistance. It has allowed African Americans to express their pain, hope, and faith while fostering solidarity and collective action.

Returning to Portsmouth, the Howard Gospel Choir, a group of students, alumni, and community members from Howard University, will lift our spirits as we celebrate, heal, and empower our communities. As the world’s first college choir, the Howard Gospel Choir is a trailblazer for gospel music ministries on collegiate campuses worldwide.

Choir Director: Ray Bramble

This event is presented in partnership with the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire