Free Speech Fest Lights Up Washington
Jane Fonda—actress, activist, and cultural icon—has turned her spotlight toward a new cause: an evening of music and protest titled “Rise Up, Sing Out.” The concert will take place on Sunday night, coinciding with the broader celebrations of America’s 250th birthday. The festivities also feature a mixed‑martial‑arts event on the White House lawn to honor President Trump’s 80th birthday.
Who’s Performing?
The lineup reads like a who’s‑who of Hollywood and music:
- Julia Roberts
- Lily Gladstone
- Bette Midler
- Patti Smith
- Rufus Wainwright
The show will be staged at The Town Hall, a historic venue founded by women who campaigned for the right to vote. Those unable to attend in person can stream the event online.
A Legacy of Activism
Fonda’s record of advocacy stretches back to the 1960s, when she championed Native American rights and supported the Black Panthers. She earned the nickname “Hanoi Jane” after protesting the Vietnam War in the 1970s. In recent years, she has:
- Fought for climate protection and been arrested during oil‑drilling protests.
- Released the documentary “Gaslit,” detailing her travels to Texas and Louisiana, where she highlighted oil extraction dangers.
- Warned against a proposed merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros Discovery, arguing it could stifle artistic freedom.
Protecting Free Speech
In October, Fonda revived the Committee for the First Amendment, originally founded by her father, actor Henry Fonda, in 1947 during the era of the House Un‑American Activities Committee. The group now works to shield artists and writers from political pressure, preserving the integrity of free expression.
A Call for Democracy
“Rise Up, Sing Out” is more than a concert—it’s a rallying cry for democracy and creative liberty. Fonda envisions this moment as a historic stand where people collectively defend their rights, undeterred by future challenges.
