By Kennedi Johnson
On September 20, in more than 200 cities across the globe, hundreds of artists will come together to put on more than 300 concerts. Music fans will open their homes for the concerts, hosting the likes of Hot Chip, Billy Bragg, Jessie Ware, The National, Kate Tempest, and Grouplove in their very own living rooms.
This “Give a Home” concert series is not only pioneering, but it also supports an important humanitarian cause. The series is collaboration between Sofar Sounds, a London-based company specializing in holding concerts in the comfort of peoples’ homes, and Amnesty International, the world’s largest human rights organization. The two organizations are coming together to bring awareness to the growing, and extremely urgent refugee crisis.
The current number of refugees across the globe is estimated to be above 21 million. That’s right—over 21 million men, women, and children have been uprooted from their homes to flee the ruins of war, persecution, or natural disasters. And only 10 of the world’s 193 countries host more than half of the refugees, meaning that those in need have limited access to vital resources and shelter.
The concert series will give people the chance to show solidarity and love towards those without a place to call home. “With more than 22 million people forced to flee their home country, the world refugee crisis is one of the defining issues of our era,” says Salil Shetty, Secretary General of Amnesty International. “How we respond to it now will shape who we are for generations to come. This is our moment to defend the things that unite us and refuse to let fear and prejudice win.”
In addition to the musical performances, each concert will also include talks from activists working with refugees who will offer concertgoers a better understanding of the refugee crisis and share ideas of what can be done to help.
“Music and art have always been powerful partners to the cause of justice because they share an ability to stir something deep within us,” Shetty adds. “They help us to look beyond borders and see what unites us.”
Fans can apply for tickets here and select their city and the event of their choice, earning the chance to win two tickets. They will have the option of making a donation to Amnesty International when applying. The concerts will also be livestreamed via VICE and Facebook Live.
To learn more about Amnesty International and its campaign to aid refugees, click here. To learn more about Sofar Sounds, click here.