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On the Road


 

It’s back! “John Lewis Lives”, the First Place winner in the Columbia Festival of the Arts Songs of Strength competition, has been released as a music video thanks to a collaboration with composer Alan Scott and American Idol winner Grammy nominee Ruben Studdard. Yes, I know I’ve written about Scott and this song before, but it’s a great local story and it keeps getting better. 

Take the time to watch the video. The use of historical photos of John Lewis throughout enhances the message of the song. It’s a beautiful tribute to a great man and a joyful celebration not only of his life, but of the journey we all need to be continuing together:

Where there is hope

 where there is freedom

 where we fight for justice

 John Lewis lives.

Where you build a bridge 

Made of faith, made of courage

He will walk beside you.

John Lewis lives.

- - John Lewis Lives (Good Trouble)

     Alan Scott

Watch the video. If you enjoy it, click “like”. Share it with your friends and in social media groups where you think it would be appreciated. That’s how the message of music spreads these days, and your participation in that process is essential. 

John Lewis Lives (featuring Ruben Studdard)

Speaking of participation, I see that this Sunday, from 4-5 pm, Black Lives Activists of Columbia will be continuing their monthly vigil at Governor Warfield Parkway at Windstream Drive. From the event page:

On the second Sunday of each month we gather from 4-5 pm to give public witness to the problem of anti-black racism in our neighborhood, our nation, and our world. Beginning in July 2029 until further notice please plan to wear masks observe physical distancing, and bring your own signs. Join us to show that all lives WILL matter when Black Lives Matter.

They’ve added this reminder:

We're glad the tide of the pandemic seems to be turning, and we're still going to be physically distancing and masking while we remind Columbia that Black Lives Matter!

I have been to a few of these events, pre-pandemic, though I could hardly count myself among the faithful who have persisted in showing up, month after month, to lift up this issue in our community. I have great admiration for their witness and commitment. My own limited experience at such vigils has taught me the importance of community gathering together to speak out against the violence and hatred inherent in systemic racism.

Whether in large crowds, or even where two or three are gathered, we must not stop using our voices and our lives to fight for justice.

You are not alone

On this road to freedom.

Where there is good trouble

John Lewis lives.

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