Civil Rights Activist Performs on Campus September 21 

SALISBURY, MD -- Singer, songwriter and civil rights activist Holly Near will be artist-in-residence at Salisbury University, Wednesday–Friday, September 19–21, to collaborate with students and perform in concert.  The performance, free and open to the public, is in Holloway Hall Auditorium, Friday, September 21, at 8 p.m.

Since the late 1960s, Near’s musical activism has led to creative collaborations with such artists as Ronnie Gilbert, Pete Seeger, Arlo Guthrie, Mercedes Sosa, Bonnie Raitt, Cris Williamson and Jill Eikenberry. 

“Her music is a blend of progressive folk and social commentary,” said Diana Wagner, one of the organizers.  “Much of her art is social commentary, addressing issues of civil rights and social justice.” 

In 1972, Near founded Redwood Records, which was a major force in alternative music for nearly 20 years.  Redwood was dedicated to recording and promoting music by politically conscious artists from around the world, including Nicaragua, Chile, Canada, the United States and Mexico.

“I do not separate my music from my heart, nor do I separate my ideas from my daily life,” Near said. 

Numerous civil rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, the National Lawyers’ Guild, the National Organization for Women and Ms. Magazine have honored Near. 

Last year, she received the Legends of Music Award for her work in lesbian and feminist music. 

For more information, call 410-543-6030 or visit the University’s Web site at www.salisbury.edu.