Los Angeles, CA. Our sincerest condolences go out to the families of those who lost their lives Saturday in the horrible and senseless attacks in Tucson, AZ. In particular, our hearts go out to the family of 9-year old Cristina Taylor Green who was one of the victims of the attack. While the attack was horrid in and of itself, the fact that a child was killed is simply shocking and horrifying.
We also hope and wish for a speedy and complete recovery for the survivors of this horrible attack including Congress Woman Gifford.
The Sound Strike artist boycott of Arizona has been active on many issues related to the mistreatment of immigrants in Arizona since May of 2010. Our experience has been that the political rhetoric and antagonism in Arizona is particularly toxic and troubling. Our intentions have always been to stay above anger and animosity.
While it is unwise to speculate as to the motives and influences of the perpetrators it is worth recognizing that there has been a collective recognition of the need to tone down the rhetoric and intensity of political discourse in Arizona. This is expressed not only on our social media networks, but online in general.
Perhaps in the coming weeks and months a space will be created that will allow us to civilly address the many conflicts and tensions that have so far reached dangerous decibel levels in Arizona. For our part, the Sound Strike will work to engage with the artist community regarding the most appropriate response to the events of Saturday. In the meantime, more than ever it is important to focus on positive discourse.
Background
In May 2010 Arizona signed into law SB 1070 requiring all law enforcement officers to target Latinos in their zealous and fanatical persecution of immigrants. Cities, counties, nations, schools, businesses, organizations and artists across the globe responded by forming an International Boycott of Arizona in support of the struggle for basic human rights.
Sound Strike is a coalition of artists that have committed to supporting the International Boycott of Arizona in the wake of the passage of SB 1070. For more information visit www.thesoundstrike.net or @thesoundstrike on twitter/facebook/youtube
