‘This Little Light of Mine’ is a children’s song written by Harry Dixon Leos in the 1920s. Even though it was not written for protests or the fight against slavery, it became a great anthem for the Civil Rights Movement from the 1950s and has been sung to represent the Hope of the civil rights activists. The lyrics of the song is fairly easy to memorize as only one line changes in every verse. The main chorus is “I’m gonna let it shine”. It evokes a sense of empowerment and an encouragement in the listener that was very much needed during the war.
“Born This Way” is a song by famous contemporary singer Lady Gaga . Released in 2011, it adresses the issues of social and racial equality. “Im beautiful in my way, ‘Cause God makes no mistakes, Im on the right track baby i was born this way” and “No matter gay straight or bi, Lesbian transgendered life” are lyrics from the song that directly points out certain discrimination of the minorities. The fight for LGBT rights and the need for hope for LGBT youth or teens from racial minorities to be able to accepted by themselves and the community is highlighted.
Both songs express hope and protest for social rights and equality though a change in the main urban issues is apparent.
