Activism in the Music Industry Helping to Overcome Racial Injustices
- Durga Sritharan (Iowa State University)
Abstract
Music has provided an avenue for underrepresented individuals and groups to express their voices, thoughts, and emotions for several centuries. Since the 1860s, blues music has been used to respond to (African) American enslavement, representing their adaptation to an enforced lifestyle and empowering emphasis on self-determination. In recent years, social justice issues that continue to impact the African American community have been highlighted in various music genres and traditions. Due to this effect, notable artists including Kendrick Lamar and H.E.R have incorporated viewpoints on some of the most controversial social issues including, Black Lives Matter and police brutality, into their music to spark conversation and reflection among members of our society. Although activism in the music industry has sprouted naturally, and continues to trend upwards on both a national and global level, there is still room for improvement. Historical evidence suggests that music will continue to play a pivotal role in our society, allowing future activists to express opinions, spark conversations, and build a better foundation to overcome racial injustices. This presentation session will focus on how activism in the music industry