Tom Morello's Concert of Solidarity to Benefit Families of ICE Victims

Tom Morello, the former guitarist of Rage Against the Machine, is set to headline a benefit concert titled "A Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota!" on January 30 at First Avenue in Minneapolis. The event aims to raise funds for the families of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both of whom were fatally shot by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents. The concert will feature performances from the punk rock band Rise Against, jazz fusion guitarist Al Di Meola, singer-songwriter Ike Reilly, and a mystery special guest.

Tom Morello to Hold ’Defend Minnesota! ’ Concert Benefitting Families of ICE VictimsTom Morello's Concert for Victims of ICE Violence In MinneapolisTom Morello announces ‘Defend Minnesota!’ fundraiser gig with Rise Against: “Ain’t nobody coming to save us except us and it’s now or never”Tom Morello & Rise Against To Headline ‘DEFEND MINNESOTA!’ Benefit ConcertTom Morello Will Protest Fascism With ‘Solidarity & Resistance’ Benefit Concert in MinnesotaTom Morello to Hold Benefit Concert of Solidarity & Resistance to Defend Minnesota, Fight Fascism

Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother of three, was shot by an ICE agent on January 7, while Alex Pretti, also 37, was killed by CBP agents on January 24. Good was shot through her car windshield, while Pretti was shot multiple times after being restrained by agents. These incidents have sparked widespread outrage and protests across the United States, with many viewing them as emblematic of systemic issues within federal immigration enforcement.

Tom Morello Announces Benefit Concert After ICE Killings

In announcing the concert, Morello expressed his condemnation of the actions taken by ICE and CBP, labeling them as "fascism." He stated, “If it looks like fascism, sounds like fascism, acts like fascism, dresses like fascism, talks like fascism, kills like fascism and lies like fascism, boys & girls it’s f*cking fascism.” Morello emphasized the need for collective action, declaring, “Ain’t nobody coming to save us except us and it’s now or never.” He highlighted the courage of Minneapolis residents who have protested against ICE and the Trump administration, framing the concert as a rallying point for community resistance.

Tom Morello & Rise Against To Headline ‘DEFEND MINNESOTA!’ Benefit Concert

While Morello's concert has garnered support, it also reflects a broader national debate regarding immigration enforcement and the actions of federal agents. Critics of ICE argue that the agency's practices disproportionately target marginalized communities and contribute to a climate of fear. Conversely, supporters of strict immigration enforcement contend that such measures are necessary for national security.

Tom Morello to Hold ’Defend Minnesota! ’ Concert Benefitting Families of ICE Victims

The concert will take place from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., with doors opening at 10:30 a.m. Tickets are priced at $25, and all proceeds will go directly to the families of Good and Pretti. The event is designed to unite music, protest, and community action, aiming to raise awareness about the ongoing issues surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S.

Tom Morello & Rise Against To Headline ‘DEFEND MINNESOTA!’ Benefit Concert

The concert is expected to draw significant attention, not only for its musical lineup but also for its political message. As protests continue in response to the shootings, Morello's event may serve as a catalyst for further activism and dialogue surrounding immigration policies and their impact on communities across the nation.

Tom Morello to Hold ’Defend Minnesota! ’ Concert Benefitting Families of ICE Victims

• “Writing on social media, Morello said: “If it looks like fascism, sounds like fascism, acts like fascism, dresses like fascism, talks like fascism, kills like fascism and lies like fascism, boys & girls it’s f*cking fascism.” — Tom Morello, Musician and Activist

Tom Morello announces ‘Defend Minnesota!’ fundraiser gig with Rise Against: “Ain’t nobody coming to save us except us and it’s now or never”

• “We are coming to Minneapolis where the people have heroically stood up against ICE, stood up against Trump, stood up against this terrible rising tide of state terror.” — Tom Morello, Musician and Activist

Tom Morello & Rise Against To Headline ‘DEFEND MINNESOTA!’ Benefit Concert