Hey folks,

I'm reaching out for some financial support. This year I rejected two major offers from major global brands Intel and H&M for ethical reasons. I want to be clear that this was my choice and that it came with clear financial consequences. Recently, I boycotted the RA x Lenovo x Intel event, because Intel is a major corporation operating in Isr*** (you know where) that is on the BDS Boycott List. Intel supplies processors for Elbit Systems, an Isr*** weapons manufacturer, which are used in handheld tactical computers deployed by the Isr*** occupation. After I declined the event, Colored Craig withdrew, and Hood Rave issued a public statement about Intel and the boycott, it appears that Intel has been removed from all of the event's branding. I see this as a significant political win! We took influence away from a corporation heavily invested in Isr*** in order to support P@lest*ne in its liberation. This result shows us our power as artists to bolster the power of the BDS movement!

(Note: I have to block out letters above to allow this fundraiser to be approved)

As American capitalism is on its deathbed and corporations fight to remain relevant, they come to artists and culture workers like DJs to help them rebrand and appear enticing. They throw money at us in order to culture wash their role in violent and exploitative systems. Because non-mainstream artists are often living paycheck to paycheck these corporations often succeed in using us for their aims. I have been rejecting high paying unethical gigs like Intel and H&M (who continue to profit from abusive labor conditions) publicly because I want folks to understand that we are powerful and can withdraw our labor from this violent system. Artists can meaningfully be a part of larger movements for collective liberation!

I'm fundraising to try and make up some of what I would have earned working these gigs so I can help make rent for the next two months. If I would have taken these gigs I probably would have helped boost my visibility and been able to pay a few months rent and then some. To stay afloat I have primarily been freelance djing and producing events but it has been more uncertain than usual in this economy. Because of the recession and crisis after crisis, people just don't have as much money to go out anymore so the underground music space has been really difficult to make a living in.

I know that so many people are struggling right now, so no pressure to support if you don't have it. But if you have any extra funds and can help support me to try to make rent and be able to get through the end of the year it would be such a great help. You will be helping me focus on finishing my Phd this year before I start applying to full time professorships. I'm also generally looking for consistent work as a sound/music curator, event producer, and DJ, or anything that aligns, so if folks have leads to anything please send them my way. I do real, committed, and deep work.

Much love,

Kumi

BAE BAE