2008 marks a great time in world history as we celebrate the transition of leadership of our country to the first African American to ever hold the title President of the United States. So many human rights activists and folks we know and loved did not live to see this change. I for one have cried many tears for my Mother and Father, Lillian and Elisha Cook who passed way too soon, however I know they are smiling and rejoicing with me in spirit.
We mourn the lost of two amazing spirits of song who passed recently. These artists sung freedom songs and were the voices of the civil rights movement here in the United States and South Africa. Great champions of civil rights who made their transition after the election of President-Elect Barack Obama.
RIP Odetta Holmes (December 31, 1930-December 2, 2008) and Miriam Makeba (March 4 1932-November 10, 2008)
I am deeply moved that both these women lived to see this change in our country. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to see both perform in concert. Their music and history I will share with my daughter, Samina. I know their musical repertoire will continue to uplift the spirits of generations to come.
