The Shondes’ van was stolen and they need to get to SXSW. Not familiar with The Shondes? Click here for photos of their most recent visit to Tucson and help them come back.
They’ve started a KickStarter fund to get a new van. Donations are made through Amazon payments (you already have an Amazon account, so it’s easy). Any amount helps.
I understand the rationale for The Sound Strike, a movement for musicians to boycott Arizona but I wonder if these musicians understand that the ignorant, biased, closed minded politicians are the ones who passed this law and signed by a governor who was never elected, not the citizens. True, if it was put to a vote, as always seems to be the case, the voters of the Phoenix area would probably prevail over the more level headed, educated, compassionate voters of Tucson, however, their stance should not be dismissed.
Tucson is a liberal oasis in the desert. It is where all kinds of people from all walks of life from all parts of the world. from all socioeconomic backgrounds come together and celebrate their diversity. Phoenix, as we Tucsonans are quick to point out, is “soulless.” No doubt this law proves it. The Tucson area’s population is around one million people compared to Phoenix’s four million. We can hardly compete with their seemingly irrational thought. Who in their right mind thinks it’s a good idea to allow anyone to carry a concealed weapon without a license? Or that there won’t be any problem with allowing guns in bars? It’s no wonder that most bars in Tucson have the “No Firearms Allowed” sign visible on their doors.
I have appreciated the many bands that have come through town expressing their opposition to Arizona’s SB1070, including The Shondes who allowed a representative of The Border Action Network to speak, raise awareness and solicit volunteers during their recent show.
The majority of music lovers in Tucson oppose SB1070 and their opposition should be embraced and not punished. It is my opinion that musicians are better off using the stages of Arizona to encourage citizens to take action to remove the legislators who voted for the bill and do whatever they can to overturn this racist law and encourage immigration reform. Go ahead. Boycott Phoenix if you think it will make a difference, but don’t turn your back on Tucson who share your views.
The Shondes (Brooklyn, NY), Seashell Radio (Tucson, AZ), Monster Pussy (Tucson, AZ) @ Plush
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