A sliding-scale show at The Cedar Cultural Center will raise funds for the legal defense of fifteen Minnesotan activists facing federal conspiracy charges for standing up to ICE operations in Minneapolis. The show is happening August 1st, 2026.
The artists on this bill all share a belief that music is an essential tool in the fight for justice. Across generations, protest songs have accompanied labor strikes, civil rights marches, anti-war movements, and struggles for immigrant justice. Protest music is a powerful force in the revolution and it’s a reminder to people that they never have to face injustice alone.
The MN 15, the people facing prosecution are not criminals. They are neighbors who stepped forward when immigrant families in their communities were living in fear. They are seen as ordinary people who chose solidarity over silence, putting themselves at risk to defend the dignity and safety of others. They are heroes because they acted on the belief that communities have a responsibility to protect one another when they believe government actions are causing harm.
Across the country, immigration enforcement has separated families, disrupted communities, and created fear among people who call the United States home. These harsh policies disproportionately impact working-class families, asylum seekers, and long-time community members, making resistance, mutual aid, and public protest essential tools for defending human rights and civil liberties.
This benefit is rooted in that tradition. It is about raising legal defense funds, standing with people facing the weight of the federal government, and refusing to let fear or repression isolate those who take action for their communities. Whether through music, mutual aid, organizing, or simply showing up, solidarity is built by ordinary people choosing to stand together.
Punk has never been about passive acceptance. It’s about challenging power, defending the vulnerable, and proving that another world is possible when communities refuse to abandon one another. Every ticket sold and every dollar raised helps ensure the MN 15 have the resources to fight their case, and sends a message that they will not stand alone. We are with them in solidarity.
Leading the night is Carsie Blanton, whose fearless songwriting mixes razor-sharp wit, classic melodies, and a fiercely hopeful vision of collective liberation. Joining her is Ryan Cassata, the Kill Rock Stars folk-punk songwriter and LGBTQ+ activist whose music has become a rallying cry for queer resilience, mutual aid, and grassroots organizing. Rounding out the bill are The Taxpayers, Portland’s legendary DIY punk collective, celebrated for turning stories of struggle, survival, and solidarity into cathartic, genre-defying anthems.
Tickets to the event are sliding scale ($20–$200) at thecedar.org. Non-locals are encouraged to support the event by sponsoring a ticket for a local. All proceeds go to the MN-15 legal defense fund.
Doors at 7:00. Show at 8:00. The Cedar Cultural Center, 416 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN. All ages.
Please contact hello@carsieblanton.com with press inquiries.