Legendary Artists Unite: Jane Fonda’s ‘Rise Up, Sing Out’ Concert for the First Amendment Takes Center Stage

New York, May 8, 2026 — In a bold declaration of artistic resistance, legendary performers will converge on June 14 for “Rise Up, Sing Out: A Concert for the First Amendment,” a star-studded event organized by Jane Fonda’s Committee for the First Amendment. The concert, set to livestream globally, marks a pivotal moment in the fight to defend free speech, assembly, and protest rights amid growing concerns over authoritarian threats to democratic freedoms.

Why This Concert Matters: A Call to Action for Free Expression

The event, headlined by Fonda alongside icons like Bette Midler, Patti Smith, Rufus Wainwright, and Broadway Inspirational Voices, is framed as both a celebration of artistic expression and a rallying cry for collective resistance. According to the Committee for the First Amendment’s official announcement, the concert aims to “enlarge our hearts” and “grow our empathy” in the face of mounting challenges to civic liberties.

Fonda, a lifelong advocate for social justice, emphasized the urgency of the moment: “We have to stand up now—this is the time. Do not do it alone.” The concert’s proceeds will fund the committee’s efforts to train organizers, amplify grassroots activism, and support future events that defend First Amendment protections.

Music as Resistance: A Historical Legacy

The event’s title, “Rise Up, Sing Out,” reflects a long tradition of music as a tool for protest. From Pete Seeger’s folk anthems to modern anthems like “This Land Is Your Land”, artists have historically used their platforms to challenge oppression and inspire change. Rufus Wainwright, a participant in the concert, underscored this legacy in a statement: “Music has always been the language of resistance. When this administration comes for our freedoms, music is how we remember who we are and what we’re fighting for.”

The livestreamed format ensures broad accessibility, with watch parties planned nationwide to foster community engagement. The committee’s approach aligns with Fonda’s belief that “public activism has worked in the past over and over,” citing movements from civil rights to climate justice as proof of the power of collective action.

Who’s Performing? A Lineup of Icons

The concert’s lineup is a who’s who of artistic and political activism:

• Jane Fonda – Organizer and performer, known for her decades of advocacy in film, theater, and social justice.
• Bette Midler – Legendary singer and activist, whose work spans entertainment and philanthropy.
• Patti Smith – Poet, musician, and cultural icon, celebrated for her fusion of art and activism.
• Rufus Wainwright – Grammy-winning artist and vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ and immigrant rights.
• Joy Reid – Journalist and commentator, bridging media and activism.
• Sasha Allen – Actress and activist, recognized for her roles in film and theater.
• Broadway Inspirational Voices – A collective of performers dedicated to uplifting marginalized communities.

Each artist brings a unique perspective to the stage, reinforcing the event’s dual role as both a performance and a political statement.

How to Get Involved: Beyond the Concert

The Committee for the First Amendment is encouraging fans to participate in several ways:

• Attend the Concert: Tickets for the June 14 event in New York will be available through the committee’s official channels. Livestream access will be provided for remote viewers.
• Host a Watch Party: Local groups are invited to organize viewing events, turning private spaces into public forums for discussion.
• Donate: Proceeds will support the committee’s ongoing work, including legal defense funds for activists and training programs for organizers.
• Advocate: The committee provides toolkits for attendees to engage in local activism, from letter-writing campaigns to public demonstrations.

Key Takeaways

• The concert is a defiant response to perceived authoritarian threats to democratic freedoms, framed as both artistic and political.
• Music is positioned as a tool for resistance, echoing historical movements from folk to modern protest anthems.
• The event is livestreamed and decentralized, with watch parties and donations amplifying its reach.
• Proceeds will fund activism infrastructure, including legal support and organizer training.
• The lineup reflects a legacy of artistic and social justice leadership, uniting stars across generations.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Free Speech Advocacy?

As the June 14 concert approaches, the Committee for the First Amendment is positioning it as the first in a series of activations. Fonda’s call to “enlarge our hearts” suggests a broader cultural shift—one where art, music, and civic engagement converge to protect democratic values.

For those unable to attend in person, the livestream and watch party model ensures that the message of resistance will resonate far beyond New York. The concert serves as a reminder that cultural moments can spark political change, and that the fight for free expression is far from over.

Stay tuned for updates on ticket availability, watch party resources, and how to contribute to the cause. The time to rise up is now.