JULY 6 “THIS WEEK IN THE MUSIC OF NONVIOLENT RESISTANCE”

Mercedes Sosa was one of the most influential Latin American singers, musicians, and activists during her long career. An Argentinian by birth, Sosa rose to fame in the 1960s and 70s with songs that angered the military junta of Jorge Videla because of her sympathy for the plight of the working class.

At a 1979 concert, Sosa and audience members were searched and arrested.

Throughout her life, Sosa remained an activist. She opposed Argentinian President Carlos Menem and was a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Latin America and the Caribbean. She also lent her music to the documentary Che, which profiled the Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara.

To listen to Sosa’s music, visit this, and check out this obituary upon her death in 2009.