Voices for change unite at Let’s Get Free March and Concert

By Tavon N. Thomasson 
Special to the AFRO
tthomasson@afro.com

Activists and non-profit organizations from across the United States gathered in Crystal City, Va., on July 9 for the Let’s Get Free March and Concert, where participants voiced opposition to the current administration’s ongoing attacks on the 14th Amendment.

Initially planned as a march outside the U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C., followed by a concert, the event was converted into a rally after organizers shifted both events to the Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport due to inclement weather. Prior to the change, numerous protestors had already gathered outside the Supreme Court to make their voices heard. 

“The 14th Amendment means a lot to me, as an African American, it’s important how that 14th Amendment affected my ancestors and how it’s affecting us today,” said activist Asa Khalie. “The bottom line is no one, no regime, no administration has a right to reverse what people have died and sacrificed to keep alive in America.”

He continued, “We’re not going to tolerate it. 
We’re not going away the shadows. We’re not going to be silent. We’re going to take to the streets. We’re going to challenge all of these ignorant people as much as we can. The racism that exists and the corruption in that administration cannot go un unnoticed.”

Protesters point to the administration’s actions regarding ICE and the deportation of immigrants as a prime example of that corruption. 

“Most of these immigrants have not committed a crime. Most of these immigrants are taxpayers. 
Most of them are children,” said Oscar Thomas. “That’s what has sounded the alarm because they have targeted immigrants with their racist bigotry, all for the pleasure of making them the enemy so people won’t look at their corruption.” 

While the administration’s perceived corruption continues to draw scrutiny from activists, those concerned with ICE are also tracking a major recent victory. In a 6-3 ruling, the Supreme Court upheld birthright citizenship under the 14th Amendment, rejecting President Donald Trump’s executive order that would have revoked citizenship for children born in the U.S. to illegal immigrants.

Despite this victory, attendees emphasized that significant work remains to protect the 14th Amendment and all constitutional rights against the administration’s persistent attacks. They believe events like this, organized by the Center for Popular Democracy, serve as a vital first step, uniting diverse individuals behind a shared mission.

“It’s good to see that there’s a bunch of community members, legislators and officials who are willing to put their words and their toes on the same line that I am,” said Kyle Hobson, poet and member of the Black Male Initiative.

Hobson was among the unique talents who took the stage and dance floor during the concert, energizing the crowd while remaining aligned with the event’s theme. Regardless of their artistic medium, the participating artists were all drawn to the movement due to its current importance. 

“Every time I get a chance to talk about – or dare I say exacerbate – the circumstance, that’s where Dead Prez shows up. That’s why we’re here,” said Mutulu “M-1” Olugbala, one-half of the political hip-hop duo Dead Prez. “They put together a convention of organizers, truth-tellers and I had to be here for that. That’s why Dead Prez is always going to be the music for the movement.”

As the music faded from the ballroom and the crowd dispersed as the concert and rally came to a close, those in attendance were left with a shared message that protecting constitutional rights will require continued unity, organizing and different forms of civic engagement.

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