Soundtrack for a Revolution: A Documentary

7:00 – 9:00 p.m., Reception to follow
The Memorial Church, Harvard Yard (map)
Presented by The Harvard Foundation for Intercultural and Race Relations, the Harvard Chaplains, Harvard Memorial Church, and the Kuumba Singers
Co-sponsored by the Black Men’s Forum, the Black Students Association, the Association for Black Harvard Women, and the Harvard College Undergraduate Council

Soundtrack for a Revolution brings the Civil Rights Movement and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s message of non-violence to life with a modern and soulful twist. The film features new performances of the freedom songs by top artists, including John Legend, Joss Stone, Wyclef Jean, and The Roots; riveting archival footage; and interviews with Civil Rights foot soldiers and leaders, including Congressman John Lewis, Harry Belafonte, Julian Bond, and Ambassador Andrew Young. The freedom songs evolved from slave chants, from the labor movement, and especially from the black church. The music enabled blacks to sing words they could not say, and it was crucial in helping the protesters as they faced down brutal aggression with dignity and non-violence. The infectious energy of these songs swept people up and empowered them to stand fast for their rights.

This film will inspire us to carry on the dream of Dr. King, as relevant as ever, to today’s concerns for economic justice, peace, and human rights for all—we can make a difference!