Novel solutions are needed to combat the fallout of war. The Bangladesh Liberation War left millions without basic human needs and created a massive refugee crisis. When George’s friend, Ravi Shankar, told him about it, he was compelled to action. Despite having no experience organizing large-scale humanitarian events, George used his platform to organize the "Concert for Bangladesh" in 1971, launching the concept of large-scale benefit concerts.
Events like this are now common, but at the time, it was both courageous and risky. George believed that seeing suffering and doing was not an option. He mobilized musicians for humanitarian relief, creating the template for modern benefit concerts while proving that artists could effectively advocate for global causes.
Emergencies require immediate action. George discovered that his fame and connections provided the impetus to successful stage what had never been done before. His willingness to convince his friends to join him was the key to the concert’s impact.
Dylan, Clapton, Billy Preston and Ringo all joined George on stage in support of the cause. Both John and Paul were invited to join. John initially accepted but later turned it down because George didn’t want Yoko on stage with them. Paul never accepted not wanting it to come across as a Beatles reunion. Despite that, the concert was a huge success.
Today, I will identify one need I can address and take immediate action rather than waiting until I feel fully prepared.
What need in your community could benefit from your unique skills or resources?
