I became involved with XR PDX just after it started up a few years ago, in 2019. We were riding the success of XR UK’s impressive shutdowns of London. So, lots of people were excited be part of XR here in Portland, OR. At that time we had a photographer taking our headshots to be used in our outreach efforts. We were each asked to write a brief bio that was to be posted with our photos. In our respective autobiographies, we were supposed to answer the question, “Why are you a rebel?”
Once I got started with listing the reasons why I am a rebel, I soon forgot that it was to be a brief response and before I knew it, I had a ranting ramble of grievances a few pages long. Maybe it was a rhyme that I saw in that tragic litany; I can’t remember now, but it inspired the the lyrics to this song.
Since I wrote the song I have made a few recordings of it but have never been satisfied with the results until now. So, here’s what I’ve got. I hope you enjoy. Please share. We need rebellion now more than ever.
Why Aren’t You a Rebel?
Words and music by Wendy Emerson
Someone asked me, why I’m a rebel? Well, let me see… Global inequality, poverty Refugee crises and the rising sea, Plastic pollution in our own bodies A mass extinction, a great dying, I think the question is: Why aren’t you a rebel? Why aren’t you a rebel too? Why aren’t you a rebel? Any aren’t you a rebel too? Look all around, say it makes you sad. Never thought things would get this bad. It’s time to wake up and realize we’ve been had To stand up for our rights it nothing rad. We’re fighting for Black lives. What more can I add? Do I have to ask? I think the question is: Why aren’t you a rebel? Why aren’t you a rebel too? Why aren’t you a rebel? Any aren’t you a rebel too? If we’re gonna survive, we must act. Politicians don’t care about facts. The rich don’t care about your poor ass, or anything that matter, just status and class. They’ll sacrifice the Earth, it’s a suicide pact. You gonna drink the cool-aid? I guess the question is: Why aren’t you a rebel? Why aren’t you a rebel too? Why aren’t you a rebel? Any aren’t you a rebel too? Why aren’t you a rebel? Why aren’t you a rebel too? Why aren’t you a rebel? Any aren’t you a rebel too?
