Malachi Rischter 1954-2006

I'm new to activism, for the most part.

I heard about and watched video of peaceful and riotuos marches made in the sixties and seventies and heard very little of large scale protests in my lifetime. Recently, I've learned much more about relationships, social structuring, government styles and community outreach and have come to appreciate what shouting to be heard can accomplish.

Malachi Ritscher decided to protest through self-immolation; he set himself on fire in protest.

Here's a piece, written about Malachi and his voice, I feel is important to read.

Also, visit lonesome-cowgirls blog where she's copied Malachi's final statement and personally written obituary, originally posted on his home page, which wasn't loading.

Self-immolation may seem beyond most boundries we create for ourselves to express our beliefs through activism or protest, yet, what have you done (beyond your average trip to the voting booths) to get the word out on what you are passionate about? As awkward as Malachi was with people, he was well known throughout a community of musicians in Chicago and whether his protest was intended to stir them, or not, his peers have heard him.

Have you ever stood for something larger than yourself?