Student Protests: Echoes of Dissent

I grew up in North America in the 1960s and early 1970s . Toronto, to be precise, was my hometown. In that era we were bombarded with news of student protests, first in America, and then in Canada and Europe. My mother befriended draft dodgers – late teen American men who refused to be part of the military meat-grinder in Viet Nam. She offered them a free place to live, and was able to help them re-enter society with their useful skills, allbeit in Canada.

This era, the ’60’s and ’70’s in America were characterised by a seismic shift in the social and political landscape,. These were driven by a wave of student protests. These movements, initially ignited by the civil rights struggle and the intensification of the Vietnam War, marked a period of profound societal transformation. The era’s protests were not only a direct challenge to governmental policies but also a broader indictment of societal norms. Here, I delve into the key protests of that period and explore the cultural artifacts—films and music—that became emblematic of the movement.

Does this remind you of the current wave of student protests?

Pivotal Historical Student Protests

Is it too soon to equate these protests two generations ago to what is happening in 2024 across America and the world?

1. The Free Speech Movement (1964-1965)

The Free Speech Movement at the University of California, Berkeley, can be seen as the spark that ignited widespread student activism in the United States. It began as a struggle for students’ rights to organize political activities on campus and quickly morphed into a powerful symbol of the fight for civil liberties. Led by charismatic figures such as Mario Savio, the movement inspired a multitude of student-led protests across the country.

2. Anti-Vietnam War Protests (Late 1960s – Early 1970s)

The escalation of the Vietnam War drew sharp divisions in American society.  In those days, youth were the leading the charge against what many perceived as an unjust war. Notable among these were the protests at Columbia University in 1968, which shut down the campus, and the massive Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam in 1969, which brought together hundreds of thousands of protestors in Washington, D.C. The anti-war sentiment reached a peak following President Nixon’s announcement of the Cambodian Incursion in 1970, triggering widespread national protests.

3. Kent State University Shootings (1970)

erhaps the most tragic outcome of these protests occurred at Kent State University, where a student demonstration against the war culminated in the shooting of unarmed students by the Ohio National Guard. This incident resulted in four student deaths and nine injuries, catalyzing even greater public opposition to the war and sparking further protests across the country.

Films and Music engaged in Protest

The Vietnam War era’s intense social upheavals were deeply intertwined with its cultural expressions. Film and music not only provided a soundtrack and backdrop to the protests but also helped to spread the anti-establishment message globally.

Films Influenced by the Vietnam War Era

“The Graduate” (1967)

“Easy Rider” (1969)

“Coming Home” (1978)

Iconic Songs of Protest and Peace

Not only the movies of the era, but the popular music conveyed the horror and mistrust of the conventional power of the time.

“Blowin’ in the Wind” – Bob Dylan (1962)

“Fortunate Son” – Creedence Clearwater Revival (1969)

“Give Peace a Chance” – John Lennon (1969)

“What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye (1971)

“The Weight’ – The Band (1968)

I have a personal connection with this Canadian group that started their careers backing Rompin’ Ronnie Hawkins in the farmlands of Souithern Ontario. They then ended up backing Bob Dylan. I volunteered to be their roadie  on 18 shows in the summer of ’68 right before they recorded their debut album Music From Big Pink.

Their music combined gospel, country, blues and rock. Their nostalgic look back at the ‘good old days’ made their music a counterpoint to the protest songs. They were highly influential, although never made the big time like some other bands. This song was also featured in “Easy Rider”.

Fade Out

The student protests of the Vietnam War era were a crucial turning point in American history. They not only challenged the political status quo but also spurred significant cultural shifts. The films and music of the time, infused with messages of dissent and calls for change, played a pivotal role in shaping public perception and remain.

Can the artists, the musician and filmmakers of today swing the same influence? This is what we at Raindance are aiming for, and we need your support.

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