Meaning: The quote "I grew up in Sydney in a very political household, where we were all for the underdog" by John Pilger, a renowned journalist, reflects his upbringing in a family that held strong political beliefs and a passion for advocating for the marginalized and oppressed. This quote provides insight into Pilger's early influences and the values that shaped his career as an investigative journalist and documentary filmmaker.

John Pilger was born in Sydney, Australia, in 1939, and his formative years were marked by a strong sense of social justice and a critical awareness of the political landscape. Growing up in a politically engaged household would have exposed him to discussions about power dynamics, inequality, and the struggles of those who were disadvantaged in society. This environment likely played a significant role in shaping his worldview and instilling in him a commitment to championing the underdog.

Pilger's upbringing in Sydney, a city with a rich history of political activism and social movements, would have further contributed to his awareness of social issues and the systemic injustices that existed within Australian society. Sydney has been a hub for various social and political movements, including labor rights, indigenous rights, and anti-war activism, and it is within this context that Pilger's early political consciousness would have been nurtured.

The notion of being "for the underdog" speaks to Pilger's deep-seated empathy for those who are marginalized or oppressed. It suggests a stance of solidarity with the disenfranchised and a commitment to amplifying their voices and experiences. This sentiment aligns with the ethos of advocacy journalism, a style of reporting that seeks to bring attention to social injustices and hold power to account.

Throughout his career, Pilger has been known for his unflinching commitment to exposing the human cost of political decisions and corporate greed. His investigative work has often focused on issues such as war, imperialism, corporate malfeasance, and the plight of indigenous peoples. Pilger's dedication to shedding light on the stories of those who are often overlooked or silenced underscores the influence of his upbringing in a household that was "all for the underdog."

Furthermore, this quote highlights the personal and emotional foundations of Pilger's work. It suggests that his commitment to journalism as a tool for social change is rooted in his early experiences and the values instilled in him during his upbringing. By expressing his familial environment as "very political" and oriented towards supporting the underdog, Pilger offers a glimpse into the origins of his passion for speaking truth to power and challenging entrenched systems of oppression.

In conclusion, John Pilger's quote encapsulates the formative influences that shaped his trajectory as a journalist and activist. His upbringing in a politically engaged household in Sydney, combined with the city's history of social movements, laid the groundwork for his unwavering commitment to advocating for the underprivileged and exposing injustices. This quote serves as a window into Pilger's deeply held values and the empathetic lens through which he approaches his work as a journalist and filmmaker.