The Delta Foundation of Pittsburgh was originally hosting a “Countdown 2 Vote” concert featuring Kesha, but have now dubbed the show “Stronger Than Hate” due to recent events.
The show, set to take place in downtown Pittsburgh, was meant to encourage people to vote ahead of the midterm elections. However, after a gunman opened fire inside a synagogue on Saturday and killed 11 people in a 20-minute attack, the foundation has decided to rename the show “Stronger Than Hate” in support of the community mourning.
“Last Saturday, we saw the worst of America,” Delta Foundation President Gary Van Horn said in a press release. “We look to use the power of music to come together and help people heal.”
Kesha is still set to headline the concert, noting that her heart is “filled with sadness following the horrible events this past weekend in Pittsburgh.” Sofie Whitney and Sarah Chadwick, two survivors of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting earlier this year, will also speak at the event.
“I’m so sorry for the pain and suffering that so many are going through,” Kesha said in a Facebook post. “I will still be coming to Pittsburgh this Saturday to play my show and deliver as much peace and positivity as I can. And I want you—anyone who feels up to it—to come and celebrate Pride with me. Let’s show the world that there is only love and always hope in Pittsburgh.”
Kesha is known for being a LGBTQ activist and an animal rights crusader. Last year, she performed at Pittsburgh’s sold-out Pride In The Street concert. Following her tour with Macklemore earlier this year, the popstar has lined up a handful of shows to round out 2018. She released her emotional and “best album to date,” Rainbow, last year.
The Stronger Than Hate show will be held on Saturday, November 3 from 6 to 11:30 p.m. on Liberty Avenue, between 9th and 10th Streets, in downtown Pittsburgh. Find tickets to the event here.
