Episode 18: Social Justice

The Cause Podcast: Ep 18: Social Justice


Episode Date: September 11, 2025

“Social justice is not charity, it’s not something we give away when it’s convenient—it’s about transforming the very structures of society so that everyone can thrive.” – Dr. Reiland Rabaka

In Episode 18 of The Cause: Conversations on Music, History, and Democracy, we conclude our Justice Series with a powerful exploration of Social Justice. Dr. Reiland Rabaka examines how movements for equity, access, participation, and human dignity are essential to building a truly democratic society.

This episode brings into focus the historical struggles and the ongoing fight to ensure that marginalized communities are not only seen but fully empowered. Dr. Rabaka draws connections between cultural activism, civil rights traditions, and present-day movements for justice, challenging listeners to rethink what fairness and equality mean in practice.

Whether you’ve been following from the beginning of the Justice Series—Environmental Justice (Ep. 16) and Food Justice (Ep. 17), or are joining us for the first time, this conversation highlights the transformative power of collective action and the deep moral imperative to center human rights and dignity.

Tune in and be part of the dialogue that seeks not only to understand history but to shape a more equitable future.

🎧 Listen now on all major podcast platforms or catch us on Radio 1190 (KVCU) every other Thursday at 7 a.m.

Core Principles of Social Justice

  1. Equity: Everyone deserves the resources they need to succeed.
  2. Access: Opportunities and rights must be available to all.
  3. Participation: Every voice matters in shaping our future.
  4. Human Rights & Dignity: Protecting rights, honoring humanity, affirming worth.

Episode 18 Playlist

  • “Strange Fruit” - Billie Holiday (1939)
  • “A Change Is Gonna Come” - Sam Cooke (1964)
  • “We Shall Overcome” - Pete Seeger (1963, live)
  • “Say It Loud – I’m Black and I’m Proud” – James Brown (1968)
  • â€Áč±đ˛ő±č±đł¦łŮ” – Aretha Franklin (1967)
  • “Mississippi Goddam” – Nina Simone (1964)
  • “Fight the Power” – Public Enemy (1989)
  • “G±ô´Ç°ů˛â” – Common & John Legend (2014)
  • “Get Up, Stand Up” – Bob Marley & The Wailers (1973)
  • “What’s Going On” – Marvin Gaye (1971)
  • “Redemption Song” – Bob Marley (1980)
  • “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised” – Gil Scott-Heron (1971)
  • “F°ů±đ±đ»ĺ´Çłľâ€ť – BeyoncĂ© feat. Kendrick Lamar (2016)
  • “A±ô°ůľ±˛µłółŮ” – Kendrick Lamar (2015)
  • “Young, Gifted and Black” – Nina Simone (1969)
  • “Which Side Are You On?” – Florence Reece / Pete Seeger version (1940s–60s)
  • “People Get Ready” – The Impressions (1965)
  • “Black Man” – Stevie Wonder (1976)
  • “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” – Donny Hathaway (1970, live version)
  • “Woke Up This Morning With My Mind Stayed on Freedom” – SNCC Freedom Singers (1960s)

What did we miss on this playlist? Let us know: thecaaas@gmail.com