Bruce Springsteen receives social justice award at Tribeca Festival
Bruce Springsteen was recognized at the 2026 Tribeca Festival in New York City with the Harry Belafonte Voices for Social Justice Award. The event, opened by Tribeca founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal, saw U2 frontman Bono introducing Springsteen as a musician, poet, activist, and patriot who transformed the voices of the people into poetic music.
In a candid discussion between Bono and Springsteen, they delved into the current political climate and Springsteen’s recent protest tour. Springsteen, however, humbly rejected the label of an activist, stating, “I’m a little embarrassed to get this award tonight cause I feel like at best I’m a concerned citizen.” Despite feeling that his efforts were minimal, he recognized that many others contribute much more than he does, singling out Bono as an example.
The exchange took a lighthearted turn when Bono shared an anecdote about attempting to include Springsteen’s song, “Girls in Their Summer Clothes,” in a Gap ad for his (RED) campaign in 2008, only to be rejected by Springsteen. Reflecting on this decision, Springsteen expressed regret, admitting, “I love that song. Damn it, I still think back: ‘Bono asked you to put this thing on a commercial on television.’ I should have f***** done it! People would hear it like a hit, you know? So I have to apologize.”
The event concluded with a captivating performance by Patti Smith of “Peaceable Kingdom” and “People Have the Power,” with Springsteen and Bono later joining her for a full rendition of “People Have the Power.” Finally, Springsteen wrapped up the festivities with a soul-stirring solo acoustic rendition of his 2012 track “Land of Hope and Dreams.”
Bruce Springsteen’s sincere humility and passion for creating music that resonates with social justice themes were evident during the Tribeca Festival ceremony. Despite protesting that he is merely a concerned citizen, his artistic contributions and unwavering dedication to addressing social issues through his music undoubtedly make him a distinctive figure in the realm of social justice.
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