Approx. Reading Level: Grade 12/ SSS3
One of the only proven ways to prevent getting Ebola is to avoid human contact with those who may have or have been exposed to the virus. The Save Liberia project, however, has been able to bring people together while still combating the infection.
As part of a collective effort, the Save Liberia project was commissioned to produce a song providing information about the Ebola virus. This project has not only united the people of West Africa but also brought together the talents of a variety of musical artists. The 45 artists involved come from different groups, styles and levels of success. Despite these differences, they have decided to work together as Liberians, to prevent the spread of illness through music. The song has been produced in thirteen Liberian dialects and provides listeners with practical prevention tips, while clearing up common misconceptions. With lyrics like, “One people, one voice. We can overcome,” the song also calls on Liberians and West Africans to “stand together.” Musicians and organizers wanted to promote a message of hope and show a positive image of Liberia.
The song and music video, officially released on September 8 has been preformed live in over fifteen counties within Liberia and on countless radio stations. One sponsor, Representative Lawrence Yeaule of the Accountability Lab, a group devoted to training and funding hopeful start-up businesses, wanted the message of Ebola’s seriousness to reach “every village and town.”
Regardless of the song’s overwhelming popularity, those involved in the project assured that any funds raised would be directly donated to help the cause, not to serve individual profit. Contributors to the campaign include, the Monrovia based Liberian Musical Artists United Against Ebola Organization, the National Task Force on Ebola, Shizo Magazine, in addition to a variety of music industry professionals like Elliott Adekoya (aka Milkman) of Sky FM Radio. Adekoya believes that this song will “get the word out that Ebola is real, but is not a death sentence.” (Beaubein, NPR) He feels as though the song will show the power of music and will “turn things around.”
Although Save Liberia is focused on supporting the people of Liberia, those involved in production have also benefitted from working together. For them, music provided relief. While Ebola has devastated the West African population, efforts like the Save Liberia project defy the nature of the disease, forming a network and connecting those suffering. Through its lyrics and process of creation, the song proves that the fight against Ebola needs to be a collective effort. Embodying this ideal, the Save Liberia project shows not only the healing powers of music, but also the ability to unite as a people.
Definitions (in order of appearance):
Commission: (verb) to give an order for or authorize the production of something.
Provide: (verb with object) make something available for use
Misconception: (noun) a view or opinion that is incorrect because it is based on faulty thinking or understanding
Embody: (verb) to be an expression of or give a tangible or visible form to (an idea quality or feeling)
