Section 8 fans gear up to host “Rock Against Racism”

For the sixth year in a row, Section 8 Chicago members will host the “Rock Against Racism” concert later today. The show will be held in the North Lot outside Toyota Park at 4pm, hours before the Chicago Fire kickoff against Minnesota United.

Rock Against Racism started in 2011 in response to a group of white supremacists who tried to gain a foothold in the Section 8 community. Given the ascendancy of white identity politics across the country, Rock Against Racism seems especially timely.

Per the organizers’ press release:

Rock against Racism was founded to foster and celebrate an environment that is free from racism, sexism, homophobia, and hate of all kind at Toyota Park and within Fire fan culture. Rock Against Racism is a partnership between the Chicago Fire, Section 8 Chicago and Sector Latino, the Hispanic supporters group. This year features Tone Zone Skam a band comprised of active members of Sector Latino.

“Considering these troubled times, this year’s musical line-up is going to be the hardest hardcore line-up we have ever had,” said Alfredo Gomez, one the event organizers. Continuing the Fire and MLS’s staunch anti-racist stance, Rock Against Racism is a cornerstone event for the Fire community and a continued opportunity to showcase both established and up-and-coming members of Chicago’s diverse musical scene.

Today’s lineup includes hardcore band Anger, oi band Fuerza Bruta, and Latino ska band Tone Zone Skam. Proceeds from the event will go to Northern Illinois Justice For Our Neighbors, an organization that serves immigrant families throughout the region.