This Sunday, May 20th, Film Bar and our friends at Zia Records are teaming up with Girls Rock! Phoenix for the Phoenix premier of Here To Be Heard: The Story of the Slits. This event will continue after the showing, with DJs, a food truck and raffles to support Girls Rock Phoenix.

We could speak at length about the social significants of The Slits and the awesomely weird sounds they recorded in the few years they were together in the late 70s and early 80s. But, we think you should just go see the movie!

Instead, we would like to focus on Girls Rock and the amazing work they are doing with these kids! Most of us who work at Stinkweeds have participated in this camp as volunteers, sound techs and “band managers.” We have had a first hand account of just how supportive, positive and impactful this camp is. In only one week, we’ve seen campers, most of whom have never played an instrument, form bands, write songs, screen print t shirts and perform in front of a packed house with the confidence of bands that have been doing this for years! This takes a lot more than just showing someone how to play three chords or count a beat. This camp taps right into that place where music and creativity lives. It’s that part of the brain that takes anxiety, angst, love and whatever else the world throws at you and turns it into inspiration. This is done through trust, inclusion, support, education and a whole lot of fun. For me, the most inspiring part of this camp was the encouragement to be loud. Whatever you got; whoever you are, these girls are taught that it’s ok to do it, say it, sing it, play it loud, but, at the same time, make room to hear others. I’ve been playing music for most of my life and I’ve learned that confidence and ability to listen are the most important factors. This took me years to figure out! If this camp can instill that kind of knowledge, at the same time, form multiple bands, make merch and put on a show, all within a week, they deserve all the support they can handle!

We encourage you to visit the Film Bar this Sunday for this sure to be engaging documentary. While you’re there, stop by the Girls Rock table and get some info on how you can help. The world will always need good music. And, the best music comes from having something powerful to say. It doesn’t get much more powerful than these two words, “Girls Rock!”

Here’s a few words from the fundraising chair at Girls Rock! Phoenix, Amy Young:

“In the three years I have spent being a part of Girls Rock! Phoenix and also having involvement with organizers from Girls Rock camps from all over the world, I never stop thinking about watching the growth and excitement each of the campers goes through as they learn to play music and express themselves in this new way. It teaches them so much — about teamwork and collaboration, about the benefits of music, about how to have positive interactions with adults and role models. It’s a blast. That’s why fundraisers like the one Owen Taylor is kind enough to throw on our behalf is so valuable. It helps support our summer camp program but also is a chance for anyone who wants to attend to come and learn about a British punk band that were one of those trailblazing acts.”