Band Aid stood up to governments, reminding them of the responsibilities of the 'developed' world. To those in need, they brought food and hope. Countless people are alive today, with brighter futures, as a result of the efforts back then.
Now twenty years on, and here we are again. People still starve in a world with surplus food, and again this song is aired to feed the hungry. Much is broadcast and written about it happening, the 'stars' involved, the food it will buy, and the lives it will save.
But what isn't often being mentioned is why - in a world with surplus food - we're back here again. As Saint Bob said back then, this can only be a band aid; the wound remains open, the real problem remains.
If you believe the newspapers, 'stars' have been queuing up to be on this record. They're no doubt sincere with giving up one day to make their contribution, but few use their fame to speak out on the issues on a regular basis. And even one that does* doesn't have those fair trade principles operating from their own offices.
Those with stupidly high incomes (I can't say 'earnings' - no one 'earns' such ridiculous sums) are the ones benefitting most from the twisted economic systems that bring about the need for humanitarian aid.
Do those contributing to the record support what's needed as a permanent fix - rather than a Band Aid - knowing that they would personally financially suffer?
And is it just ironic that several (at least!) of the performers could themselves give more money than this single will raise - without missing it? The reality is that those who get massive reward for little work are part of the problem, not the solution.
Please don't let the above effect your support for Band Aid. Please do find out about and support the issues.
http://www.jubileedebtcampaign.org.uk
http://www.maketradefair.com
http://www.oxfam.org.uk
*details can be provided to that individual on request (but of course, not his representitives - they won't want it known!)
article by: Iskra
published: 15/11/2004 10:12