The D.C. statehood movement is getting a boost and a song of its own on Saturday night. “Stand up for D.C.” will be performed at a benefit by the LCB Group, which features former members of legendary vocal groups the Temptations, Platters and Drifters.
“Civil rights activist Rev. Walter Fauntroy used to visit my home in D.C. when I was a child, so I was aware from a young age that D.C. doesn’t have voting rights,” said Joe Coleman, former lead singer for the Platters. “It’s a civil rights issue that’s very important to me.”
The event is the D.C. Statehood Benefit Party, which will be two shows, 8 and 10 p.m., at the Carnegie Institution at 16th and P streets NW. Preceeding the music for those interested will be an educational program by the American Civil Liberties Union of the Nation’s Capital. The session is designed to train volunteers how to lobby members of Congress on D.C. statehood, with a focus on getting more co-sponsors for the current statehood bill.
The “teach-in” is free. Tickets for the musical peformances are $50, or $100 to also attend a private reception. For tickets or information, call (202) 457-0800 or email [email protected] or [email protected]
