Stand Against HB2 concert Saturday meant to be an ‘oasis of calm’
In a week where peaceful protests have escalated into violence, people are yearning for a safe space.
This Saturday, The Stand Against HB2 concert at the Neighborhood Theatre is meant to be that for the people of Charlotte. It’s a laid back concert with local brews and food that begins at noon. Put on by the North Carolina Musicians United for EqualityNC, this is one of a series of concerts that have been happening across North Carolina, pledging a message of unity, equality and the hope of a better North Carolina.
While the event started as a way to bring awareness to House Bill 2, it has turned into a celebration of equality in general through music. Other concerts in Saxapahaw, Winston-Salem, Asheville and Wilmington have featured a mix of local music from around the state, from bluegrass to hip hop and even old fashioned rock ‘n roll.
Organizer Mike Allen is hoping people will come out on Saturday to support each other and find community during a difficult time.
“We want everyone to be safe going to the show and at the show,” said Allen. “Our concerts are very peaceful and there’s a lot of love in the room. I would hope that people who need that kind of environment will come and hang out.”
As someone who has attended all of the concerts so far, I can tell you they are filled with people who are supporting each other with food, laughter and music. While manning the Equality North Carolina booth at each of these events, I was impressed with the level of generosity from people who grabbed a beer and plunked $20 into the donation bowl even when there was no suggested donation. “Thank you for what you’re doing,” they have said.
Saturday’s slate of performers will include those from previous Stand Against HB2 concerts and some new Charlotte-based acts as well. Here’s the full list of performers:
Donna Duncan
Jeffrey Dean Foster
DJ Pangean
Jack the Radio
I, Anomaly
Orlando Parker, Jr.
The Loudermilks
Alternative Champs
Bless These Sounds Under the City
Rapper Shane
Happy Abandon
The Business People
Christy Snow
Dust & Ashes
Jon Lindsay
Cuzco
The-Eyebrows
Allen is looking forward to seeing people come out of their hiding places and seeking refuge with their neighbors.
“Maybe we can be an oasis of calm in a rather turbulent city,” he said. “At least that’s my hope.”
Neighborhood Theatre: 511 E. 36 St.
Photos: Mike Allen
This story was originally published September 23, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Stand Against HB2 concert Saturday meant to be an ‘oasis of calm’."