Jane Fonda Enlists Bette Midler, Patti Smith, and More Stars to Fight Authoritarianism at June Concert

[marmar]

(Vanity Fair) On June 14, a group of legendary performers will take the stage in New York to celebrate art and music—and fight “an authoritarian regime that is rapidly taking over our democracy,” says organizer Jane Fonda.

“Rise Up, Sing Out: A Concert for the First Amendment” will feature performances and appearances by Fonda, Bette Midler, Joy Reid, Patti Smith, Rufus Wainwright, Sasha Allen, and Broadway Inspirational Voices.

Fonda’s Committee for the First Amendment, a free speech advocacy group, is organizing the star-studded fundraising event to bring attendees—and viewers at home—together in celebration of “the freedoms guaranteed by our First Amendment, of speech, religion, press, assembly, and protest. In a moment when authoritarians are increasing their attacks on our freedoms and communities, this is an opportunity for people across the country to rise up.” Proceeds from the event will go to the Committee for the First Amendment, which will put them toward training, hiring organizers, and future activations and shows.

“We have to stand up now—this is the time,” Fonda tells Vanity Fair. “Do not do it alone…. We have to enlarge our hearts right now. We have to grow our empathy and help each other in the face of what’s happening.” .................(more)

https://www.vanityfair.com/hollywood/story/jane-fonda-bette-midler-patti-smith-concert-authoritarianism

[werdna]

1. IMHO -

- I hope the "more artists to come" will include contemporary performers with whom the youth can identify. This needs to be a pan generational and diverse effort!

[johnnyplankton]

2. Absolutely. We need young people to be interested. Not just oldtimers (like me) who actually know who Patti Smith is