Rise Up

My work personally and professionally is driven by my belief that all humans have a right to liberation and freedom. 

 

In response to the ongoing threats to liberation around the world, I was inspired to write a song that I have named Rise Up. 

 

Rise Up asks others to use their voice and whatever power and privilege they may have to advocate for the liberation of all people. 

 

Though I was originally inspired to write these words from learning about the ongoing atrocities against the Palestinian people, I recognize these words could be about numerous issues including the horrors in Sudan, Congo, and Darfur, and ongoing issues in the United States, Canada, and across the world. These words can also represent issues around racism, homophobia, transphobia, homelessness, reproductive justice, sexual health, voting rights, 2SLGBTQIA+ issues, Black Lives Matter, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirits, and Relatives (MMIR), environmental issues, saving mountain gorillas, access to affordable healthcare and education, and the eradication of lobbyists who seek corporate interests over people. These are just a few of the issues I deeply care about. 

 

What do you care about?

 

I am making a video for the song and I am asking for you to join me. If you feel called, I ask that you film a short 10 second video of yourself holding up or writing a sign or wearing a shirt about something you believe we need to stand up for. I am also asking for any clips you may be willing to share of protests you have attended. 

 

The video will be a collage of various historical protest moments and individuals advocating for liberation. 

 

In the song I sing the following lyrics 

“Rise Up! Come and join me in this fight. Rise Up! Join me in the light. I can’t hold on, can you hold on? I need someone to lean on. Can I lean on you?”

 

The video is not for commercial gain. It is my response as an artist and an activist to the horror unfolding before our eyes. It is my response to a callous government and administration that chooses power over peace. 

 

Please visit my website www.rogerkuhn.com to learn how you can participate in this project. Feel free to share this with your networks. 

 

I will not be including any anti-liberation messages in the video. If your version of liberation includes harming others you are advocating for oppression and we are not the same. May we all be free from the tyranny of a few ✊🏼💖