A Moment Of Pete: When Pete Seeger Murdered HUAC, Just Like A Communist
As we continue with our Pete Seeger remembrance, we would be remiss if we failed to mention his 1955 testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee. Go read the full thing; it's that good. But if you're going to be lazy and stay here, we have some highlights for you! But first, for the sake of context and celebration, let's just watch this short clip (above) of Bruce Springsteen introducing Pete at his 90th birthday concert. Springsteen says of performing with Pete at the Obama inaugural concert,
"That day as we sang "This Land Is Your Land" I looked at Pete, the first black president of the United States was seated to his right, and I thought of the incredible journey that Pete had taken ... Pete, you outlasted the bastards, man!"
And now, on to some of the bastards, from HUAC's questioning of Seeger on August 18, 1955. Pete's refusal to play their game is downright inspired, not to mention inspirational:
MR. TAVENNER: The Committee has information obtained in part from the Daily Worker indicating that, over a period of time, especially since December of 1945, you took part in numerous entertainment features. I have before me a photostatic copy of the June 20, 1947, issue of the Daily Worker. In a column entitled "What's On" appears this advertisement: "Tonight -- Bronx, hear Peter Seeger and his guitar, at Allerton Section housewarming." May I ask you whether or not the Allerton Section was a section of the Communist Party?
MR. SEEGER: Sir, I refuse to answer that question whether it was a quote from the New York Times or the Vegetarian Journal.
Contempt of Congress? Pete nailed it. Congress was/is beneath contempt. Someone needed to point that out.
He not only was at the forefront of social change and activism he was there with a smile and a song.