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Peter & Bethany Yarrow  

Founder of "Peter, Paul & Mary," Social Activist, Director of Operation Respect

Peter Yarrow is a renowned artist and activist recognized for his role as a founder and leader of the folk music trio "Peter, Paul & Mary," which rose to international acclaim. His songwriting for the group includes well-known songs such as "Puff, The Magic Dragon," "Day Is Done," and "Light One Candle." This musical creativity has always been aligned with Yarrow's dedication to social change.

Throughout his career, Yarrow has been deeply involved in numerous social movements, advocating for issues including human rights, peace, education, and more. In 1982, he was honored with the Allard K. Lowenstein Award for his efforts in advancing human rights, peace, and freedom. His commitment to these causes is evident in his music, which has served as a powerful tool for advocacy, promoting ethical values and social justice.

Currently, Yarrow serves as the Founding Director of Operation Respect: "Don't Laugh At Me," an initiative that fosters safe, compassionate, and nurturing environments for children. This program has been implemented in over 10,000 schools and has been widely praised across the educational community. Yarrow regards this initiative as one of the most significant advocacy efforts of his career.

In addition to his continued performances with Peter, Paul & Mary, Yarrow frequently collaborates with his daughter, Bethany Yarrow, a talented singer and songwriter. Together, they perform in "Father to Daughter and Beyond: A Legacy of Commitment and Activism," a program that combines music with inspiring talks on social issues, emphasizing the importance of intergenerational relationships and collective activism.

Bethany Yarrow, a Summa Cum Laude graduate of Yale, has been actively involved in human rights from a young age. Her documentary "Mama Awethu," made in 1994, highlights the struggles of black African women against apartheid in South Africa. The film has been featured in several international film festivals, including Sundance, Bombay, and Berlin.

Together, Peter and Bethany Yarrow offer a unique blend of lecture-performances that bridge generational gaps and inspire audiences to engage in social change. Their shared commitment to making the world a more equitable place resonates strongly with audiences of all ages, empowering them to foster relationships characterized by closeness, affection, and mutual respect.

Speech Topics


Father to Daughter: A Legacy of Commitment and Hope

Intergenerational Connections

Don't Laugh at Me

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