We Are Soldiers in the Army

African American Spiritual

“We Are Soldiers in the Army” is a spiritual rooted in the African-American freedom tradition that became a powerful anthem of the Civil Rights and Welfare Rights Movements. With its call-and-response structure and driving rhythm, the song affirms a collective commitment to struggle—no matter the cost—for justice, dignity, and liberation. It continues to inspire generations to march forward, undeterred, as part of a larger movement for freedom.

We Are Soldiers in the Army with Nonviolent Medicaid Army – Honoring Erro Lynd

Briann Moye

Tips for Impact

This version can ground your gathering in the song’s story and purpose, offering a powerful tool for political education. It also inspires ways to use song as an act of remembrance and collective commitment.

“We Are Soldiers in the Army” is a traditional African American spiritual and gospel song that has long been a rallying cry in movements for social justice, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement and beyond. Briann Moye adapted this powerful song to uplift the struggles of leaders in the Nonviolent Medicaid Army and to honor the life and legacy of Erro Lynd.

Lyrics:
We Are Soldiers in the Army
We are soldiers in the army
We’ve got to fight, although we have to cry.
We’ve got to hold up the blood stained banner.
We’ve got to hold it up until we die.

Well, Martin was a soldier.
He kept his hands on the freedom plow.
He said, I might not make it,
but I’ll give my life to fight on anyhow.

Chorus

Johnny Tillman was a soldier.
Kept her hands on the gospel pile.
One day she got old and couldn’t fight anymore
And she said, I’ll stand here and I’ll fight anyhow

Chorus

Now Erro, was a soldier,
kept their hands on the gospel plow.
One day they got sick and couldn’t fight anymore.
And they said, I’ll stand here and I’ll fight anyhow.