Sun 6/26 @ 1PM
The awful mass shooting in Orlando gay nightclub Pulse hit so many sore spots with Americans who are tired of bigotry, hate and violence. It’s made the call for increased gun regulation and the banning of assault weapons increase to a roar, while members of Congress put their hands over their ears and go “La la la I can’t hear you — oh, is that an NRA check for moi?”
It’s focused attention on the continued hatred and discrimination LGBT people face. And it’s exposed those who want to blame Islam for all terrorism and violence and persecute Muslims for their faith — even while a gaggle of “Christian” pastors has popped out from under their rocks to declare that the victims deserved to get killed or that it is too bad more weren’t killed.
The urge to discuss and understand and take action against this wave of hate is strong. That’s why Near West Theatre, with its mission to bring people of every type together to make theater, and the cast of its upcoming show Assassins (opening July 15), are hosting a community gathering at the Gordon Square theater in response to the shootings. They’re inviting people to bring poetry, songs, stories, journal entries and other creative offerings to share. And at the end, there’ll be a community art project tat anyone who chooses to may participate in. The event is free and open to all.