Peace and social justice are what Pete Seeger tirelessly worked for and sang for throughout his life.
Seeger was the consummate activist, hounded by the FBI because he would not name names during Senator Joseph McCarthy’s reign as Chief Bully of the United States.
We should remember that terrifying reign well today, as we see once again how Big Brother’s henchmen can threaten all who support world peace and social justice.
The video at the beginning of this post highlights many of the causes to which he dedicated his life.
- He sang out against racism and discrimination
- He sang out against America’s historical involvement in wars that the government justified using a variety of nefarious excuses
- He sang out against the Vietnam War
- He sang out for toys for peace instead of war in Iraq
- His music permeated the Occupy Movement
Pete’s songs have inspired and engaged people around the world on behalf of peace and justice. One internet site has versions of his songs in 33 different languages. His grandson carries on his tradition.
We cannot fill his shoes but we can follow in his footsteps.
Kathie Malley-Morrison, Professor of Psychology