Activism Through Music

There are many ways to be an activist. This Earth Day, we are highlighting one of our favorites: music.

Music is a great way to convey a message and bring awareness to important issues in the community. Not only does music entertain us, but it is also a great platform for discussions that promote change.

Throughout history there are many examples of music being used to impact progress. Here are a few:

• “Swing Low Sweet Chariot” and “Go Down Moses” were both associated with the abolition movement.
• “Yankee Doodle” was used by both sides of the Revolutionary War.
• Billie Holiday’s “Strange Fruit” was used as an anthem during the Civil Rights Movement.
• John Lennon’s “Give Peace a Chance” became a rallying cry for antiwar movements.
• The Indigenous classic “From Little Things Big Things Grow“ fought for the return of the Gurindji peoples’ land in Australia.

What other songs can you think of that have been used as forms of protest in recent years?

Earth Day is another great time for peaceful activism through music. On this day we can raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire action to protect the planet. We want to ensure a healthier Earth for future generations.

We asked our Gibbs Smith Education colleagues what songs they would pick for an Earth Day playlist. You can find the classroom-friendly list here or listen to it with your class on Spotify.

Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a free lesson plan to create your own activist songs with your class.