Geddy Lee Narrates Short Film for See The Good Movement
RUSH bassist and vocalist Geddy Lee has lent his voice to a short film as part of the See The Good movement, an anti-hate campaign aimed at fostering tolerance among young Canadians. This initiative features global celebrities who advocate for diversity and inclusivity.
About the See The Good Movement
The See The Good campaign consists of a series of videos narrated by celebrities, encouraging youth to shift the conversation on social media by celebrating diversity in all its forms. These videos highlight inspiring stories of individuals from marginalized cultures and visible minorities who have made significant contributions to humanity through innovations, discoveries, and human rights initiatives.
Celebrity Advocates
With a growing network of ambassadors, the campaign has reached over 85 million organic global followers. Notable advocates include Gene Simmons from KISS and David Draiman of DISTURBED, who join Lee in promoting a message of positivity and acceptance.
Geddy Lee: A Personal Connection
Geddy Lee, born Gary Lee Weinrib in 1953 in Toronto, Canada, is renowned as the lead vocalist, bassist, and keyboardist of the legendary rock band RUSH. Acknowledged as one of the greatest rock bassists, his musical style has influenced countless artists across various genres. Lee has received numerous accolades, including his induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013.
Impact of His Heritage
Lee has a deeply personal connection to the Holocaust, which he explores in his memoir, “My Effin’ Life.” As the son of Holocaust survivors Morris and Mary Weinrib, who both endured Auschwitz, Lee reflects on how his parents’ experiences have shaped his identity and artistic journey.
Addressing Contemporary Issues
Free Speech and Rising Hate
In a November 2023 interview with PBS NewsHour’s Lisa Desjardins, Lee discussed the concerning intersection of free speech and rising hate globally. He emphasized the importance of discourse, stating, “The death of discourse is not good for the human race… It’s through discourse and through educating each other that we can improve our lives. When you see that starting to happen, it scares me.” He drew parallels to the warning signs present in Germany before World War II, expressing his fears about the world today.
Response to Recent Conflicts
In October 2023, Geddy Lee spoke out about the violence stemming from the conflict involving Hamas’s attacks on Israel. During an interview with CBC News’ The National, he explained why he and his RUSH bandmate, Alex Lifeson, felt compelled to denounce the attacks. “It was a hurtful, terrible moment in modern history… It was important to express the pain we were feeling watching this,” Lee remarked, highlighting the emotional weight of the situation.
Personal Beliefs and Identity
In a 2009 interview with Heeb magazine, Lee described himself as an atheist, stating, “I consider myself a Jew as a race, but not so much as a religion.” He expressed his connection to Jewish culture primarily through family gatherings, rather than religious observance.
A Legacy of Support
Lee’s late mother, who passed away in July 2021, was a significant supporter of his music career and a Holocaust survivor. His stage name, Geddy, is a tribute to her, derived from her strong accent that transformed “Gary” into “Geddy.”
Conclusion
Geddy Lee’s involvement in the See The Good movement highlights his commitment to promoting tolerance and understanding in a world increasingly fraught with division. His personal history, combined with his artistic influence, makes his voice a powerful addition to the ongoing conversation about hate, identity, and the importance of celebrating diversity.
FAQs
What is the See The Good movement?
The See The Good movement is an anti-hate campaign that features celebrity-narrated videos aimed at promoting tolerance and celebrating diversity among young Canadians.
Who are some other advocates of the See The Good campaign?
Other notable advocates include Gene Simmons from KISS and David Draiman of DISTURBED, who join Geddy Lee in spreading messages of positivity and acceptance.
What personal experiences shape Geddy Lee’s views?
Geddy Lee’s views are significantly shaped by his heritage as the son of Holocaust survivors, which he discusses in his memoir and during interviews about current social issues.
How does Geddy Lee describe his religious beliefs?
Geddy Lee identifies as a Jewish atheist, emphasizing his cultural heritage rather than religious practice, and enjoys family gatherings during Jewish holidays.
