Activist Baby Boomers Are Alive and Well
I am lucky to live in a part of the world where people care about and work on politically progressive causes. Last night, my neighborhood of Jamaica Plain hosted a talk by Frances Moore Lappe, author of the groundbreaking classic Diet for a Small Planet (1971), which addressed hunger and promoted vegetarianism. One of the facts that she popularized is one I quote all the time: It takes 16 pounds of grain or soy to produce 1 pound of meat. Lappe’s focus on hunger has expanded to encompass all manner of global issues through an organization she founded called Small Planet Institute.
Last night, the audience was, by my estimation, two-thirds gray-haired folks who are still politically engaged. Some people insist that baby boomers are self-indulgent, self-centered people, but I can say that this is certainly not true of the ones I know.
There is a wide array of organzations peopled by, or financially supported by, activist baby boomers. Here are just a few:
Common Dreams: the Portland, Maine-based provider of progressive news and views
Adbusters: a Vancouver, B.C., publication that challenges consumerism
Dollars & Cents: a Boston-based publication on economic justice
Our Bodies, Ourselves: a Boston-based organization that pioneered the women’s health movement
Ms. Magazine: the feminist publication marks its 35th anniversary this fall
November 2nd, 2007 at 9:37 am
I’ve attended dozens and dozens of peace rallies over the past five years and without a doubt, the VAST majority of participants were Boomers. However, during the past year, I am seeing more and more youth – led by IVAW (Iraq Veterans Against War).
November 2nd, 2007 at 11:36 am
the real issue for me is how much better the aging body digests all these things, fresh veggies, juices soys, flax and nuts Doing the research there is virtually no better way cheniclly and physically for your body,based on private research following cancer treatment.,.sk
November 2nd, 2007 at 11:37 am
We are the generation who grew up with Vietnam; Kent State; Civil Rights Movement—many of us are still committed to the “cause.” Thanks for the list.
November 2nd, 2007 at 3:35 pm
Robert: Thanks for sending in your observation at the peace rallies. So I’m not imagining things.
Sandy: Good point.
Beverly: I am thankful there is still some activism. But to (poorly) paraphrase Maya Angelou, you’re already paid for; your ancestors paid your way, so do something worthwhile with your life.
November 2nd, 2007 at 4:21 pm
Robert and Rhea, I have no doubt the Baby Boomers are a huge force in a lot of activist causes. What I am glad to hear is that some of the younger generations are also getting involved. We need to be able to “pass the torch to the next generations.”
November 4th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
All good causes. I do eat a lot less meat than I once did.
November 4th, 2007 at 11:31 pm
I agree we must pass the torch. But I also know that my fire is still burning strong and right now I want to spread the fire from my passions to any torch that wants to be lit.
Thanks for this great post.
PS I find fiber to be a very moving experiance and trying to get more veggies, fruit and less sugar in these days
November 5th, 2007 at 8:05 am
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