We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest: Ella’s Song
On this special day, as we remember the 50th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington, I offer this moving performance of Ella's Song by Sweet Honey in the Rock as a reminder that 'we who believe in freedom cannot rest'! The lyrics follow, just below.
I also offer this as a tribute to the spirit of Ella Baker, and the many countless women whose consistent and persistent voices, perspectives and actions anchored the activism of the civil rights movement, and indeed our unending determination to reclaim our way in a strange land.
As you reflect throughout the day today, know that our struggle for justice continues, and that it transcends time and space. In our continuing struggle we both honor our ancestors, and demonstrate our commitment to our generations yet unborn. Step by step, and day by day, we stay the course...
We who believe in freedom cannot rest We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes
Until the killing of black men, black mothers' sons Is as important as the killing of white men, white mothers' sons
That which touches me most is that I had a chance to work with people
Passing on to others that which was passed on to meTo me young people come first, they have the courage where we fail And if I can but shed some light as they carry us through the gale
The older I get the better I know that the secret of my going on Is when the reins are in the hands of the young, who dare to run against the storm
Not needing to clutch for power, not needing the light just to shine on me
I need to be one in the number as we stand against tyrannyStruggling myself don't mean a whole lot, I've come to realize That teaching others to stand up and fight is the only way my struggle survives
I'm a woman who speaks in a voice and I must be heard At times I can be quite difficult, I'll bow to no man's word
We who believe in freedom cannot rest We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes
Background
- About Oronde Miller
- Book Table of Contents
- Oronde’s Book: Facing The Rising Sun
- a black love music celebration
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