Advocacy and converts to the cause

Haugen has it right, I think, about advocates going, sending, and praying, but in this day and age there may be some other options. A while back Dr. Ridgely Mohammad asserted that if you want people to know something these days, put it out on a blog, especially for students to read it. That's a preferred mode of communication he said. I think he may be right. Just yesterday, I got an email from an advocate in Indiana who is wanting the word out about Harry Young and his plight in Kentucky. There is an earlier piece in this site about Mr. Young with links to various sources. We all need to network for causes that are important.

Another meaningful effort is simply word of mouth. So, over the weekend, while on a trip to Austin for a state board meeting, I was privileged to hear my son, Micah P., perform in the 6th Street area. Beforehand, a meaningful conversation started between the musician he was opening for, Will Johnson of Centromatic, and Will's mother. That conversation spilled over into Sunday lunch when Micah P., Will, my wife, and I were able to talk about music, social justice songs, and advocacy. "I'll look into it" was Will's comment. Micah P. is already a "convert to the cause," and is currently working on lyrics and music for a song about the plight of the Black farmer. Maybe we'll pitch those words out some day soon.

So, advocacy and "converts to the cause" can occur in the oddest of situations. It was just a family weekend, one filled with birthdays and music.

The farmers' cause got a shout-out. Maybe it'll lead to a convert.

We can hope and pray.