Stand up for artistic freedom and free expression!

WHAT: A peaceful protest rally and march to oppose the Kennedy Center takeover and criminalization of drag performances. The event includes speeches from DC-area drag performers, a march, and will conclude with a "Queer Joy is Resistance" dance party.

WHEN: Saturday, March 8, 2025

• 6:00 PM: Rally begins at Washington Circle NW with speakers

• 6:45 PM: March down New Hampshire Ave NW

• 7:15 PM: Rally continues at Kennedy Center with additional speakers

• 8:30 PM: "Queer Joy is Resistance" dance party at As You Are (500 8th St SE)

WHERE:

• Starting point: Washington Circle NW, Washington, DC 20037

• March route: Down New Hampshire Ave NW (fully wheelchair accessible)

• Kennedy Center rally location: Right-most quadrant of the front of the Kennedy Center building (to the right of the right-most entrance when facing the building)

• After-party: As You Are (500 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003)

WHO: Organized by a collective of dedicated social activists in the DMV area, featuring speeches by drag artists including:

• Brooke N Hymen (@brookenhymen)

• Crystal Edge (@itscrystaledge)

• Indiana Bones (@__indiana.bones__)

• Cake Pop (@cakedoesdrag)

• Tara Hoot (@tarahoot)

• Mari Con Carne (@_mariconcarne)

• Blaq Dinamyte (@blaq_dinamyte_)

• Mx.Noir (@gracedrones)

• Ricky Rosé (@kinggrickyyrosee)

WHY: The purpose of this action is to:

• Demand Kennedy Center Board reinstate queer programming

• End Congress' attempt at criminalizing gender non-conformity

• Protect DC home rule and advocate for DC statehood

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• ASL interpretation will be provided throughout the event

• Protesters will not enter the Kennedy Center at any point

• Bathroom facilities available at:

  • Trader Joe's (1101 25th St NW, Washington, DC 20037)

  • Starbucks inside GW hospital cafeteria (900 23rd St NW, Washington, DC 20037)

• Parking options:

  • Lot 769 - Square 54 (2200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037)

  • M St Colonial Parking (950 22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20052)

  • Metro recommended: Foggy Bottom-GWU Station

About the Organizers: A newly formed, ever evolving collective of dedicated social activists in the DMV area who plan, organize, and execute direct actions in the nation's capital supporting marginalized people against the widespread attacks on our rights, wellbeing, and safety.