Fall of Freedom Returns With Hundreds of Anti-Trump Art Actions

The art and activism group Fall of Freedom is kicking off its second annual series of events across the United States this weekend, from October 2 to October 4. The initiative, spearheaded by artists Dread Scott, Jenny Polak, playwright Lynn Nottage, and curator Laura Raicovich, aims to combat the growing authoritarianism of the Trump administration. Last year's inaugural run was well-received, and this year's lineup includes public artworks, concerts, and exhibitions across the nation.

Fall of Freedom's founder, Dread Scott, expressed concern over the administration's attacks on the arts and freedom of speech. These include the potential renaming of the Kennedy Center, attempts to limit federal funding for the Smithsonian Institution, and the targeting of public artworks like Joel Shapiro's "Blue" (2019) and José de Rivera's "Infinity" (1967). Scott emphasized that the arts are under assault, but artists and musicians are refusing to remain silent in response.

One of the flagship events for Fall of Freedom is Lynn Nottage's play Undersiege, featuring monologues from over 40 Black women and femmes. This production will be presented at the New York Public Library on Friday, October 2, alongside playwright Dominique Morisseau. Nottage expressed her gratitude towards the many individuals who have responded to the call to action, organizing concerts, readings, workshops, exhibits, and salons centered around art as a form of resistance, celebration, and liberation.

The organizers have expanded the movement this year, hosting events around May Day. In the coming weeks, expect to see a Roger Guenver Smith one-man show at the New York Theatre Workshop, a zine-making workshop in Little Rock, Arkansas, and a convening at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. where participants are encouraged to share their favorite stories about the institution. Last year, Fall of Freedom organizers held a dance protest at the Kennedy Center in response to Trump's authoritarian policies.

Kris Grey, a transgender and nonbinary artist, explained that the name "Fall of Freedom" reflects the dual nature of the current political climate. Grey emphasized that creativity itself is a form of resistance, as art is not a luxury during such times; rather, it serves as a survival strategy.