Two Songs from the Civil Rights Movement
The Civil rights movement was a very important time in the United States history taking place primarily during the 50’s and 60’s. Many people gathered together to protest against the racism, violence, and prejudice African Americans were wrongfully subjected to. Music played a role during these two decades. These songs were the audible embodiment of hope and strength that mirrored were the people’s collective desire for positive change and equality.
“We Shall Overcome” is a gospel song that became an anthem for the Civil rights Movement. This song really resonates with people because it is about not only about overcoming despair a single truth that we continually see replayed again and again throughout history. The truth that good and justice will ultimately prevail and win out in the end.
“Say it Loud, I’m Black and I’m Proud” by James Brown is a song that helped instill African American pride into the hearts of many during such uncertain and trying times. Having pride in who you are can be a powerful force. We cannot help what nationality we were born as, who our parents are, or what our environment will be like growing up. Humans should not be judged or discriminated against factors that they cannot control, but regardless of this, it still happens. That is why being proud of who you are, despite the preconceived notions of others is so important. Self-acceptance, will help in altering your mindset towards making the world a more accepting place, because if you cannot accept yourself, then why should the world?
These songs, as well as many others, now serve as a reminder of what people have undergone in the fight for freedom against injustice. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” If you see an injustice there are several ways to spread the word, songs, marches, and the will to stand up for what is right proved to be an effective method even against brutal violence and imprisonment. The world is still far from perfect, discrimination and the mistreatment of people still exist and even run rampant in certain places, but it doesn’t have to be that way. In the words of Edmund Burke “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.”