Dr. Martin Luther King wrote that “…any law that degrades human personality is unjust.” The news constantly confronts us with oppression based on race, gender, beliefs in our society and world. It’s important to recognize ways we keep people down and initiate peaceful changes that ensure that everyone has equal rights to resources and education. Andra Day’s song “Rise Up” is about overcoming barriers and finding strength in standing together to make the world a better place.
Lyrics: You’re broken down and tired / Of living life on a merry go round / And you can’t find the fighter / But I see it in you so we gonna walk it out / …And I’ll rise up / I’ll rise like the day / I’ll rise up / I’ll rise unafraid / I’ll rise up / And I’ll do it a thousand times again / And I’ll rise up / High like the waves / I’ll rise up / In spite of the ache / I’ll rise up
Questions: What are some examples of ways we keep people down in your school and community? What about in our country and our world? How can you help people overcome barrier and rise in a peaceful way? When have you experienced being kept down? How have others helped you rise? What help bridge the gap between you and those who keep you down or count you out? How?