‘Dancing in the Streets’

Rev Claire MacDonald

When Martha and the Vandellas’ anthem Dancing in the Streets climbed into the American pop charts in 1964 it represented a small depth charge of solidarity with the Southern Civil Rights movement. It meant not just fun but a commitment to ending segregation, and a refusal to be quiet. What does it mean to dance, to sing, to refuse to be robbed of joy as acts of resistance? From Iranian dance funerals held this spring in defiance of the regime, to Ukrainian ice parties in spite of Russian bombardments, to Bad Bunny—these moments follow a tradition that says every small act of collective love and care matters in times when the powerful wish to rob the people of joy. ‘Grief and fear are rising in many places, but joy is a deep form of resistance.’ Join us for collective song, a little prayer, and some nourishing silence.

No Kids Club this week. All ages will join the gathering in the sanctuary.

Attend either online or in person at the Newington Green Meeting House, 39a Newington Green, London, N16 9PR (fully accessible). Go here for more information and the Zoom link, and here for directions to the Meeting House.