Harry Belafonte will be remembered for his musical achievements and incredible performances, but what may be less visible is his deep commitment to a nonviolent pursuit of justice and and human dignity. Amid a flood of commemorative videos and performances, a memorial to be held at the Lincoln Memorial next week. World leaders, including President Biden and UN Secretary-General noted his contributions both musically and as a civil rights activist.

But now, as the world looks back on the life of 96 year old Harry Belafonte after his passing this week, people can now see in plain view the myriad of ways the musical and civil rights legend was the first of his kind to accomplish many things, no matter the obstacle. Of note to many was his deep friendship with the late Martin Luther King Jr., and his lifelong dedication to working toward racial equality through a nonviolent strategy.

Democracy Now hosted Mr. Belafonte on numerous occasions, and have a collection of interviews available on their website here. Christiane Aranpour on CNN offered a lot of insights to the relationship with Martin Luther King Jr, in her memorial tribute to the late musical master, titled Remembering Harry Belafonte.

While no one summary can cap the brilliance or impact that Harry Belafonte had on generations of Americans, be they women of color, BIPOC men, children, or members of the LBGTQ+ community, all of whom he he was also a vocal ally.

Lenny Kravitz performed a notable tribute to the late, great Harry Belafonte, with his rendition of the song, “How Long Have You Been Blind.”