The White House is planning its first music festival to bring creators, innovators, and organizers from across the country together. The evening to celebrate great music, film, and ideas is also a call for every American to get involved in having a positive effect on our country. Inspired by a trip to South by Southwest in Austin earlier this year, Obama is looking to follow up on his challenge of creative thinkers and entrepreneurs to help tackle the country’s challenges. The event, called South by South Lawn, will take place Monday, Oct. 3, and the guest list will be selected from submitted nominees.
In coordination with the American Film Institute, the President’s Committee on Arts and Humanities, and South by Southwest, the South Lawn event will be comprised of three parts:
– Interactive booths encouraging attendees to engage with and learn about new technologies and innovations.
– As part of this event, the 3rd Annual White House Student Film Festival will showcase official The World I Want to Live In themed selections honoring young filmmakers.
– Musical performances by well-known and emerging artists who are using their music to inspire audiences.
There is speculation that young Chicago artists, Chance the Rapper in particular, could be featured performers. The Obama family is reportedly big fans of Chance and his latest album, Coloring Book. Coincidentally, Chance is embarking on his Magnificent Coloring World Tour this fall. Nothing is currently scheduled on the tour for the date of the festival, and it officially touches down in D.C. a few days later, on Oct. 6.
The White House invoked the spirit of a statement Obama made in Selma to challenge young leaders to build toward a more tolerant, fair, and progressive America.
“It is you, the young and fearless at heart, the most diverse and educated generation in our history, who the nation is waiting to follow,” said Obama.
The president is inviting all to nominate themselves or someone they know creating change in their community as potential attendees. The deadline to submit nomination details via the White House website is Sept. 10 at 5 p.m.
