Had to Stand Up (Song)

“Had to Stand Up” addresses the need to stand up to racist behavior and be a strong ally to those who are experiencing prejudice and discrimination. The song can be used as a springboard to talk to young people about how it feels to witness injustice and what they can say or do to take a strong stand. The song can also help children build an awareness of sensations and emotions, and connect these feelings to taking action in a difficult situation. This discussion guide is aimed at children in grades K-5, and can be downloaded FREE at https://www.antsonalogmusic.com/standup.

"Had to Stand Up" was selected as a 2021 semifinalist in the International Songwriting Competition.

Visit https://www.antsonalogmusic.com/standup to let us know how you used “Had to Stand Up.” We’ll post responses on our website so we can all learn from each other.

Song by Julie Be, discussion guide by Julie Be and Mara Sapon-Shevin.

Mara Sapon-Shevin (she/her) is a white, queer, anti-racist educator and Professor of Inclusive Education at Syracuse University where she focuses on issues of diversity, inclusion and anti-oppressive education. Mara has written several books, including “Because We Can Change the World: A Practical Guide to Building Cooperative, Inclusive Classroom Communities.”

Julie Be (they/them) is a queer, white musician and activist based in Philadelphia. They are one half ofAnts on a Log, performing socially conscious music for children and families. Julie holds a Master’s in Music Therapy and serves as Assistant Director at Camp Aranu’tiq, summer camp for trans and non-binary youth.