John Legend is a distinguished musician, songwriter, and actor, but many people don't know that he is also a major political activist. Legend was born and raised in Springfield, Ohio. Legend, along with his three other siblings were homeschooled by their mom until they went to high school. Legend had many musical and political influences while he was growing up which inspired to be be the person he is today. Legend is an advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement through his actions, including promoting awareness, running the Free America program, and making sure immediate changes happen. Legend impacted the Black Lives Matter movement through promoting awareness of the racism and starting a conversation about incarceration. “The issue …show more content…
“In 2015, John Legend is leading a nationwide listening and learning tour, visiting with people who are incarcerated, law enforcement, legislators, and experts who’ve been thinking critically about America’s prison problem”(“#FREEAMERICA”). Legend went on a tour around America to meet with people that were incarcerated, and lawmakers regarding incarceration. This tour also helped the lawmakers view the situation from a different angle. During the tour Legend had the opportunity to meet with various people who were incarcerated, some of which have now joined his movement to keep America’s children out of prisons. Instead Legend hopes to student keep students in schools rather than receiving harsh …show more content…
I’ve participated in marches. I’ve seen really a surge of interest in the political system and how ordinary people can get involved in the political system and make change happen”(Gajanan) . Legend has participated in parades and marches to bring awareness to the problem and making sure change happens. Legend has ensured immediate change by giving the public someone to look up to. He has given people a voice in what they believe in, and has become a beacon of hope for those who want to see change happen. John Legend is a political icon and activist for the Black Lives Matter movement. He is also an inspiration for young Black Americans who are incarcerated. Legend gives hope that change will happen to many people by using his platform; as a singer, songwriter, and actor he informs others of the problem facing America. He believes that rather than putting America’s children in jail, they should receive help to living a better life. Legend ensures this through his actions of promoting awareness, running the Free America program, and making sure immediate change