If you’re interested in some Oscars counter programming for a good cause, there’s a #JusticeForFlint benefit concert airing now on Revolt TV for those affected by the Flint Water Crisis. Hollywood directors Ava DuVernay and Ryan Coogler organized the concert in Flint with Blackout For Human Rights. The concert features singers like Janelle Monae, actors like Jesse Williams, and comedian Hannibal Buress as host.
According to Vox, DuVernay and Coogler organized the concert to raise money for Flint’s citizens, and also to give them a voice. DuVernay says that the event wasn’t intended to comment on the #OscarsSoWhite controversy. “We are basically saying on this night there are other things going on around issues of justice and dignity,” she says.
Coogler tells Buzzfeed that the decision to hold the concert during the same weekend as the Oscars was a coincidence, since this is also the last weekend of Black History Month.
People revved up for the benefit under #JusticeForFlint hashtag. The tweets convey anger at the powers that be for not stopping this crisis, such as Michigan governor Rick Snyder.
One of these poets was pregnant w twins & lost them. A direct result of lead poisoning. She's here, now. Overstand that. #JUSTICEFORFLINT
— jesse Williams. (@iJesseWilliams) February 29, 2016
When there will be no more @JanelleMonae where will our water b. #JusticeForFlint
— Michèle Stephenson (@michele0608) February 29, 2016
https://twitter.com/ChisaraAsomugha/status/704095390908489728
https://twitter.com/NerdyWonka/status/704095202978312192
https://twitter.com/ShaunKing/status/704090185663909890
There are snippets of the ongoing performances as well.
@TapologyDance and Raise it Up students performing at #JusticeForFlint pic.twitter.com/fwXTSzusg0
— Ian Artis, Jr., Esq. (@ianartis) February 29, 2016
And this tweet does call out the Oscars.
#JusticeForFlint swag bags filled with luxury items like drinkable water, medical assistance, and national attention. #Oscars
— The Daily Show (@TheDailyShow) February 28, 2016