In a saturated election news cycle, a subject change could be music to your ears.
“Song is the heartbeat of resistance,” according to the national movement Singing Resistance, which began in Minneapolis earlier this year. Groups around the country joined the first official action at the end of February. You might be surprised to know there is a small chapter here in Lewis County.
A group of strangers and friends sang in front of the courthouse that February afternoon. They held signs featuring hearts and statements like “You are not alone” and “It’s OK to change your mind.”
In addition to the cold in the air, there was a sense of optimism and camaraderie. Since then, Singing Resistance Lewis County has been gathering in Chehalis to learn songs, share meals and build a community of people who want the world to be a kinder place.
It can be scary to speak out against injustice when you are in the minority. Singing is a form of peaceful protest, but it’s more than that. Studies show that singing with other people is good for your physical and mental health. It can help strengthen immunity and lower stress. It makes you feel part of something bigger and more connected to people around you.
It also offers hope, which we all need more of these days.
Singers in the Lewis County group share how participating makes them feel more engaged and how music has “the power to unite, uplift and encourage” during times of division. Others say the songs offer a view of “how the world could look … if we change for the better.”
One says she feels "an immediate joyful and authentic connection that takes me away from other frustrations” and how that feeling provides strength that lasts long after the session.
All ages and voices are welcome in Singing Resistance Lewis County. You do not need to be a “good” singer. We learn short songs of love and solidarity by ear, lyrics usually provided. We meet on the second Thursday of the month: a potluck followed by singing. Please join us! Email singingresistanceLC@proton.me for more information.
We will be singing at No Kings on Saturday, Oct. 17, towards the beginning of the event, if you’d like to listen before joining.
Farley Walker
Curtis
