NAMES IN THE NEWS : Rights Core Issue, Travers Says

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — New forms and new issues may be around, but social activism still centers on human rights, said folksinger and longtime activist Mary Travers, one-third of the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary.

“The issues today are a question of ecology, education and a new virulent racism,” said Travers, whose voice blended with those of Peter Yarrow and Paul Stookey on “Puff (the Magic Dragon)” and other hits.

Travers, in Nashville to address the Jewish Federation’s annual fund-raising dinner, said Sunday the big difference between activism in the ‘60s and that of today is wealth.

“In the 1960s, the economic infrastructure was healthy and people could afford to be generous and help others get a piece of the pie if their piece of the pie was secure,” Travers said.