Want to change the world? Unite with others in common cause
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
~ Margaret Mead
Melissa, who posted the video at URTH.tv wrote this: “We are the World featured the mega music stars of the time and ultimately raised $50 million for famine relief in Africa. The artists were famously asked to ‘leave their egos at the door’ in an effort to come together, raise consciousness and jumpstart action to reach out to those in need.”
Do you remember this song, this video, and the way this collective undertaking affected you?
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Music and Civic Engagement
“We are the World” was a bit before my time. But more recently the LIVE 8 concert (July 2005) brought together over 100 major artists at eight venues across the globe. The purpose: To raise awareness of global poverty and urge G-8 heads of state to implement global policies that will curb severe economic inequities.
The quote by Margaret Mead resounds with me, as I’m currently working with an organization whose purpose is to expand congressionally protected wilderness areas with the Monongahela National Forest (W.Va.). This is a grassroots effort that has required much organization, outreach, and public involvement. But the latter has been most important, and will ultimately have a major impact on the degree of our success.
Collective will can be transformational, but sometimes it takes time for people to become more aware of the most important public issues, and then to solve them accordingly.
Comment by J. Keeling — March 30, 2007 @ 12:10 am
What a trip for me. “We are the World” is not before my time. In fact, I remember taking the More To Life weekend in 1985 and over 100 people singing along and dancing with the music. I feel the same now–the importance of each of us making our difference in the world–and I have the joy of doing that as I travel to train the More To Life weekend in Knoxville this Friday, Saturday, Sunday! Thanks for helping me remember.
Jan
Comment by Jan Matney — April 16, 2007 @ 10:10 am
Music is so powerful, especially in helping us recall potent memories. I’m delighted this video brought you to a sacred memory Jan. Thanks for all you do to make “We are the world” real rather than simply remaining pretty words in a song. Peace.
Comment by Shonnie — April 16, 2007 @ 11:01 am