Far too many DU students are unaware of who the late Pete Seeger was. A folk music icon, an unwavering optimist, activist and life-long member of the “Never Give Uppers” Club, this righteous New Yorker is worthy of recognition even out here in Colorado. Especially in light of his recent passing, his immense contributions to the Folk, civil rights, labor and environmental movements merit celebration. From his words, his actions and his life there are many lessons we, as young people among a sea of social activism, can embrace and learn from.
Seeger, born nearly a century ago, first pursued a journalism career at Harvard. Within his first two years he realized his path was not to be achieved through traditional education. DU is a fantastic institution to lay the foundation for your aspirations; in no way am I advising anyone to drop out. Later in life Seeger described during a C-SPAN speech that “real education is full of happiness.” Regardless of the circumstances his words remind us that not only is education a privilege, it is also an opportunity to experience the joy of learning something new. His background is a reminder that there is not a single path to a fulfilling life and that we need to rediscover the wonder and delight of education.
After leaving university, Seeger educated himself in the world of Folk music and carved a life of spoken word and song with the help of his five-string banjo. He is considered a critical figure in the 1950’s Folk revival; USA Today calls him a “folk-singing legend.”
A member of the Weavers, a collaborator with Bruce Springsteen, Woody Guthrie and many others, a performer at President Barack Obama’s first presidential inauguration and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Seeger remained an active man to his death. He celebrated his 90th birthday with a concert in Madison Square Garden and, as recently as last winter, he was performing for an audience of hundreds at a benefit concert in Manhattan. His grandson reported that a mere 10 days prior to his death, at age 94, he had been cutting wood outside. This vitality is something those our age can take for granted. Do not allow yourself to become apathetic or lethargic; take action, whether it be going for a run or participating in a protest. We should all attempt to match Seeger’s unrelenting energy and optimism for action.
He was enthusiastically involved in campaign after campaign throughout his life. He traversed the U.S. advocating for labor rights with songs like “The Talking Union Blues.” After having been a soldier in World War II he wrote “Waist Deep in the Big Muddy” to support anti-war efforts. Not only did he march many a time with Martin Luther King Jr. himself, but he is credited with developing the anthem of the Civil Rights movement, “We Shall Overcome.”
Considered a cultural hero by Rolling Stone, he has been an influential force in countless movements and provided the lyrics and melodies to accompany each one. Through these songs he articulated stories, raised awareness, promoted peace, encouraged kindness and inspired hope. His causes varied, but he was always an indomitable activist. According to his very own words in the same C-SPAN speech mentioned earlier, to combat “people throwing angry words at each other,” we need to discover creatively compassionate ways of communicating. He found his voice through song, but for others he explained it could be achieved through writing, dance or even food.++ Explore your interests, embrace your passions and employ your unique skills.
One of his most influential causes was that of environmental preservation, specifically for the Hudson River in New York. In his words, “Once upon a time activists concentrated on trying to help the meek inherit the Earth, but we realized that if the Earth wasn’t safe, it wouldn’t be more than a garbage dump for the meek to inherit.” In reaction to his beliefs twenty-five years ago he, along with some others, decided to build a sloop called The Clearwater as a mascot for addressing issues of pollution and degradation of the Hudson.
This beautiful boat has inspired the collaboration of numerous organizations and people and has been the centerpiece of the Clearwater’s Great Hudson River Revival. This event has become the country’s largest annual environmental celebration and is host to musicians and performers of all kinds: foods, crafts, dances and environmental activism. It is a gathering that raises awareness and funds for river preservation and protection. Take action: Even if it may seem nonconformist or inconsequential the ramifications could be monumentally positive.
He told stories, taught lessons, and sang inspiration. He was a master of engaging the audience, previewing lyrics so even those unfamiliar with the song could participate. Through this he gave to the people; he enabled thousands upon thousands of people to find their voices together. If his story has taught us anything, it is to discover what cause or causes make your heart sing and to take that passion and find your unique voice. Once found, express it any or many distinctive ways.
