Benefit helps families affected by ICE raids

“The people have the power/to redeem the work of fools,” rock icon Patti Smith sang in her decades-old song, “The People Have the Power.”

Currently, folks are embracing that message, taking to the streets, social media and in-person community events to speak out against Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Phoenix presence and general methods of operation.

At a night of community, art and activism, the Voices United benefit event on February 1 will give all proceeds to the Emergency Workers Legal Defense Fund to help families affected by ICE raids. 

The free event at Club Contact in downtown Phoenix will feature two stages, a local art auction, DJs, live bands and panelists all coming together to raise funds and awareness.

The event comes on the heels of a massive anti-ICE protest on January 30 at the Arizona State Capitol on January 30, coinciding with a nationwide strike against Trump’s immigration policies. Several businesses closed for the day in support of the shutdown, and those that couldn’t completely close stayed open and donated proceeds to local organizations. Some spots, like record store Stinkweeds, closed sales but stayed open for people to pop in, listen to music, have snacks and engage with other members of the community.

David Moroney, who is bringing vinyl to DJ a set at the event, emphasizes its importance.

“I think what MELT and the organizers are doing for this current fundraiser and others they’ve done in the past is really great because it’s giving musicians, who otherwise may not have a lot of expendable income, an opportunity to engage in activism that positively affects their direct community through the use of their talent. The same is true when artists donate merchandise to be raffled off to raise funds; it’s a meaningful way to give back and be involved in a situation where we’re all feeling a little helpless and not in control. Of course, people gathering to celebrate music and each other is an amazing lift to spirits during such a heavy moment.”

The event is supported by a number of local organizations, including Mesa Valley Indivisible, Phoenix DSA, Poder in Action and Puente.

Here is the lineup of performers for the Voices United Benefit.

Jonny Piyamas
Srija
Joelie
SZzn in the Sun
Trip Hazard
Jerusafunk
Casti
David Maroney
Andrew Hoffman
Eli
Nutter Tut
Randy Perez
Prime Society
Freknix
*Special guest