Art is a Weapon: Ian MacKaye and Mark Andersen on Punk Rock, Politics, Activism, and Aging

Art and punk rock have never been mere mirrors reflecting the state of the world—they can also be active forces capable of reshaping politics, culture, and community from the ground up.

For decades, Ian MacKaye (Fugazi, Minor Threat, Dischord Records) and Mark Andersen (Positive Force DC, Dance of Days, We Are Family) have stood as steady, uncompromising participants in the area where independent music and social justice meet. This discussion can cover running a truly independent record label, organizing all-ages benefit shows, delivering groceries to low-income seniors, archiving, writing books, engaging in protests, and the role of music in all of that. Drawing on lifetimes of archiving and building community through art and activism, join us for a compelling virtual conversation between Ian and Mark. Whether you are a longtime veteran of underground scenes, an emerging artist, or an activist looking for new pathways of resistance, this conversation may offer vital insights, historical perspective, and actionable inspiration for the fights ahead. There will also be an opportunity for the audience to ask questions about other topics.


***Register through Ticket Tailor to receive a link to the live-streamed video on the day of the event. This event will also be recorded and captioning will be provided.***

Speakers:

Ian MacKaye is a musician, archivist, co-founder of Dischord Records, and member of the bands Minor Threat, Fugazi, The Evens, Coriky, and others.

Mark Andersen is a community activist, co-founder of Positive Force DC, co-founder and director of We Are Family Senior Outreach Network, and author of numerous books including, We are the Clash: Reagan, Thatcher, and the Last Stand of a Band that Mattered.

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This event is a collaboration between Haymarket Books and PM Press, a benefit for PM Press to celebrate their 20th anniversary and build for the next 20 years by purchasing their warehouse, and part of PM's All We Have Is Each Other event series.