Continuing its 35-year tradition, AHRF creates a platform for political and social discourse through an outdoor celebration of local culture. This year’s featured speakers are State Representative Tyrone Brooks and social activist Ward Churchill, and several others are slated to discuss current issues surrounding undocumented students, health care, LGBT rights, homelessness and more. Performances, which alternate in between speakers, run the gamut from the whimsical Dancing Flowers for Peace to saucy Lacie and the Glitter Cabaret. Musical headliners include Beatles cover band Abbey Road LIVE! on Saturday and the Grateful Dead and Pink Floyd cover band, Dark Side of the Dead (formerly Cosmic Charlie), on Sunday. As always, the square will be lined with informational booths presented by various local organizations, and an area with face painting, games, art projects and llamas will help keep kids occupied. The festival is free, and takes place 10 a.m.–10 p.m. on Saturday, May 4 and 12–10 p.m. on Sunday, May 5. Check www.athenshumanrightsfest.org for the complete schedule of speakers and performances.
UPDATE: According to the Human Rights Festival’s Facebook page, events have been cancelled for the rest of Saturday, May 4 due to inclement weather. As of now, the festival plans to continue on Sunday, May 5.
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