By John Q. Hosedrinker 
In contrast to a mixed martial arts event celebrating President Trump, actor and activist Jane Fonda will host a concert in New York City. Her group, Committee for the First Amendment, is presenting “Rise Up, Sing Out” to support free speech and democracy, principles Fonda believes are under attack. The event, featuring prominent actors and musicians, will be livestreamed and highlights Fonda’s decades of activism and her recent efforts to draw attention to environmental issues and media consolidation. Fonda sees this moment as crucial for artists to actively participate in shaping historical narratives.
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Jane Fonda is set to host a significant First Amendment celebration this Sunday, June 14th, in New York City, coinciding with what is being framed as Donald Trump’s “UFC Freedom 250” event. This counter-programming, organized by Fonda’s advocacy group, the Committee for the First Amendment, aims to highlight principles of free speech and democracy, which Fonda contends have been under threat during Trump’s presidency. The event, titled “Rise Up, Sing Out,” will feature a concert with prominent actors, musicians, and public figures, including Julia Roberts, Lily Gladstone, Bette Midler, Patti Smith, and Rufus Wainwright, all appearing in support of these foundational American ideals.
Fonda, at 88 years old, is positioning this as a crucial “documentary moment” for history, emphasizing her commitment to actively participating in the defense of democracy rather than passively observing. Her event will take place at The Town Hall, a historic venue established by suffragists, and will be available via livestream, ensuring broad accessibility. This initiative comes as Trump is reportedly hosting a spectacle involving mixed martial arts fighters on the South Lawn of the White House, ostensibly to celebrate his 80th birthday and as part of a series of events commemorating the nation’s 250th anniversary.
The timing of Fonda’s celebration is particularly notable, falling on Trump’s birthday, and drawing a clear contrast to the UFC event. While Trump’s event is described by some as a “Geezer Birthday Event” rather than a genuine celebration of America’s 250th, Fonda’s gathering focuses on the core principles of the First Amendment. Her long history of activism, dating back to the Vietnam War era and extending through various social justice movements, underpins her current engagement. She is recognized by supporters as a veteran defender of democracy, with a legacy of anti-war advocacy and support for civil rights.
The contrast between the two events is stark. Trump’s event, described by some as self-aggrandizing, is juxtaposed with Fonda’s focus on collective action and artistic expression in defense of democratic values. This is not the first time Fonda has been a prominent figure in political discourse, her past activism, including her controversial visit to North Vietnam in 1972, has often drawn criticism and debate. However, supporters point to her subsequent expressions of regret for certain actions, like a photograph taken on an anti-aircraft gun, and highlight her ongoing contrition as a demonstration of her character.
The narrative surrounding these events suggests a clash of ideologies and generational approaches to civic engagement. While some lament the politicization of national anniversaries, others see Fonda’s event as a necessary response to perceived threats to democratic norms. There’s an underlying sentiment that these events reflect a deeply divided nation, with Fonda’s celebration aiming to rally those concerned about the state of free speech and democratic principles, while Trump’s event, though presented in a celebratory context, is viewed by critics as further evidence of his tendency to make all occasions about himself.
The comparison to the nation’s actual 250th anniversary, slated for July 4th, is also relevant, with some suggesting that these birthday-themed events are diverting attention and resources from a more unifying national commemoration. Fonda’s “Rise Up, Sing Out” concert, by featuring a lineup of respected cultural figures, aims to create a powerful statement in support of the First Amendment. The sheer caliber of talent involved suggests a significant effort to amplify this message and capture public attention.
Furthermore, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation regarding the potential “ratings” battle between the two events, with many hoping Fonda’s celebration will outshine Trump’s. This rivalry, in a way, underscores the broader political landscape, where cultural and political activism are increasingly intertwined. The presence of well-known personalities in Fonda’s event is seen as a strategic move to garner wider media coverage and engage a broader audience in a conversation about civic rights and responsibilities.
The discussion also touches on generational leadership, with some expressing a desire for younger figures to step forward in similar advocacy roles. While Fonda’s enduring activism is applauded, the hope is for a new wave of visible leaders to emerge. Regardless of individual perspectives on Fonda’s past or the current political climate, her decision to host this First Amendment celebration opposite Trump’s event signifies a clear and deliberate act of political and cultural engagement, aiming to leverage artistic expression as a tool for democratic defense.