Learning from our past, shaping the future

ABOUT PAUL ROBESON

Paul Robeson was a scholar, an all American athlete, an artist, and an activist.  The son of a former slave turned preacher, he rose to prominence at a point in history when segregation was legal in the country.

He continues to serve as an inspiration to people of all races and walks of life today.  Read more >

I stand here today under great stress, because I dare, as do you, all of you, to fight for peace and a decent life for all men, women, and children wherever they may be.

PAUL ROBESON, PEACE ARCH SPEECH (1952)

Coach Steve Everett

PODCAST

Robesonian legacy of football and American spirit

We turn our attention to the Robesonian legacy of football by holding a conversation with Coach Stephen Everett, Head Coach of Willingboro High School Chimeras and reflecting on the “new idealism” of Paul Robeson and his fellow “Man of the Month” Frederick Douglass Pollard. We also provide a preview of our workshop at the upcoming Black Asian Solidarity Conference being held on the campus of Princeton University on October 11th 2023 and extend an invitation to everyone to join us for our 125th Birthday Musical Tribute to Paul Robeson. On Sunday, October 15th we welcome Kevin Maynor, the Rider University Jubilee Singers, Susan Robeson and other special guests to the Nassau Presbyterian Church for a concert and program starting at 3:00pm.

HONORING HARRY BELAFONTE

We pay tribute to the life and legacy of Harry Belafonte, an extraordinary artist, activist, and humanitarian. His powerful voice and magnetic presence on stage enchanted audiences around the world, while his unwavering commitment to social justice inspired generations to act.

Watch Harry Belafonte’s interview on PBS American Masters, where he recounts the day he met Paul Robeson and the profound impact Robeson made on his life as a mentor and role model.

Harry Belafonte with Paul Robeson House of Princeton board

THE ROBESON HOUSE

The “Paul Robeson House,” is a residential property located at 110 Witherspoon Street, Princeton, NJ, where Paul Robeson was born. It has been the focal point for advancement of the African American community in the Princeton area for over a century.

It was the residence for Reverend Drew Robeson and his family when he was appointed pastor of the Witherspoon Street Presbyterian Church in 1879. The property later transferred to private ownership and became the “first residence” for many migrant workers, domestics, and laborers that came to Princeton. Through the years, it has served as a gathering place and service center for neighborhood residents. Many of the new residents settled in the Witherspoon-Jackson community and became the driving force for social, educational, and civic advancement of the community.

COMMUNITY VOICES

Rozyln Anderson Flood

Rozyln Anderson Flood

Board Member

As both an attorney and a poet, I was drawn to Paul Robeson’s advocacy for racial and social justice, eloquently shaped by his artist’s soul.

As Paul explained, “The artist must elect to fight for freedom or slavery.  I have made my choice.  I had no alternative.”

 

 

Dr. Joy Barnes-Johnson

Dr. Joy Barnes-Johnson

Board Member

“The Paul Robeson House project builds on an important legacy of Mr. Robeson: full human dignity.”

As an idea, the house serves as a center within a historic district known to be a friendly neighborhood in its community. The complexity of Robeson’s work to address economic, aesthetic, and political freedom can be explored by all who will come.

 

Kevin Gift

Kevin Gift

Board Member

“Paul Robeson’s legacy inspires me to use my talents to build a peaceful world with equal justice for all.”

Paul Robeson used his abundant God given talents to turn a vision for world peace and human equality into reality. Our world is better today due to his positive influence and efforts.

Jeffrey Yuan

Jeffrey Yuan

Board Member

“The Robeson House can be a center and vehicle for greater social good and become a manifestation of Robeson’s legacy that the world should and must be a better place for all.”

Don’t go along to get along. Be willing to sacrifice to do what you know is right.

PAUL ROBESON