it’s MNInteresting to learn First Ave hired a new general manager, Steven Sawyer, a MAGA Tr*mp supporter w a habit of posting racist takes online. He’s the former Director of Events & Hospitality at Target Center. I worry of the impact this will have on staff & patron safety.
In 2022 First Ave announced a code of conduct in response to the 2020 uprising following the MPD murder of George Floyd, as well as in response to calls from survivors of assault/harassment in the music scene to create safer space for ALL staff & patrons. first-avenue.com/about/code-of-…
First Avenue employees and patrons represent diverse cross-sections of the community. Hiring a GM who publicly espouses hateful dehumanizing views of our community flies in the face of commitments made by First Avenue to artists, patrons, staff & the community at large.
First Avenue is a business!!! They are NOT your friend or a space rooted in community. Their ACTIONS show their priorities & values (money) - as well as their performative commitment to “safer spaces.” The club has repeatedly completely mishandled reports of harm.

& a 🧵 from @jasoncomix for context
THEY need YOU!
They went to the govt to ask for your tax money to keep their doors open.…if they're not willing to change for you, to make it a safe place for you to go, then don't go there.
(excerpts of Nur-D on ep. 55 the Enough. podcast found here)
podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/enoug…
Seriously remember THEY need YOU
The club can hire whoever they want, but we don’t have to support their choice.
First Avenue staff knows their worth + the worth of their patrons - and they’ve been unionizing. ❤️🔥 💪
The use of anti-racist & anti-oppressive practices is critical to a healthy, flourishing creative community.
That’s all.
Share this Scrolly Tale with your friends.
A Scrolly Tale is a new way to read Twitter threads with a more visually immersive experience.
Discover more beautiful Scrolly Tales like this.