Tapestry of Faith: What We Choose: An Adult Program on Ethics for Unitarian Universalists

Alternate Activity 1: The Music of Justice

Part of What We Choose

Activity time: 20 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Newsprint, markers, and tape
  • Music player(s) for sharing cassette tapes, MP-3s, and/or CDs

Preparation for Activity

  • Before this workshop, invite participants to bring recordings of music that has inspired them in resisting oppression. Tell the participants which types of music players you will have available and/or encourage them to bring a device for sharing their music.
  • Set up the music player(s).
  • Optional: Obtain a copy of Unitarian Universalist Jim Scott's song "Nothing We Haven't Seen," from the Sailing with the Moon CD. Lyrics for the song can be found on the Jim Scott website.

Description of Activity

Invite participants to share stories of times when music has lent strength and sustenance to a community resisting oppression. The stories can be ones in which participants played a personal role or ones about which they have read or heard. If participants have brought recordings of the particular songs, play them. Ask: "Why do music and resistance frequently go hand in hand?"

If you have time, close the activity by playing "Nothing We Haven't Seen" and inviting reflection on its words.