Maine Inside Out has the opportunity to take the stage in front of members of the United States Congress in Washington DC.
Will you help us get there?
In March of this year, Maine Inside Out community group members from Biddeford, Lewiston and Portland performed the original play "Do You See Me? All Who Struggle, Salute" in the Hall of Flags in Maine's State House as part of a statewide Arts Advocacy Day. Audience members included legislators, staff, arts educators and young people from around the state. The performance was powerful, and moved many present to tears. The event's keynote speaker, long time educator, advocate and former First Lady of Maine Mary Herman, approached the performers afterward to express gratitude and admiration. She also stated an intention to share her enthusiasm for Maine Inside Out's work with her husband, who happens to be former Governor and current US Senator, Angus King. A few enthusiastic emails later, Maine Inside Out now has the incredible opportunity to bring this group of young artists to Washington DC in May to share their play with members of the United States Congress on Capitol Hill.
Senator King's Office will host us for a tour of the Capitol building and invite all members of the Maine delegation to attend this event.
As you may know, "Do You See Me?" has been created and performed by young men and women with lived experience in the juvenile justice system. The play explores the invisibility often experienced by young people living on society's margins, and poses thoughtful questions about systemic racism, the school to prison pipeline, and the role of the community in seeing and honoring both the needs and strengths of our youth.
This opportunity is extraordinary. It also marks the realization of a cherished dream, to bring these gifted artists to share their work with communities across the country. We are ready and willing, and now we need your help.
In support of this tour and the 15 young artists who have created and performed this play, Maine Insdie Out is working to raise $20,000 in the next 30 days. We need our community to show up strong with an investment in this effort. Will you join us?
