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Uncle Lou has been a pillar of the Orlando underground scene for decades, creating a truly special place for artists, musicians, and anyone seeking a welcoming space for self-expression.
*Update* Uncle Lou has been forced to elect voluntary removal after the rejection of his habeas petition and denial of bond.*
As a result, he is unable to provide for his personal expenses. We are coming together as a community to fundraise for his personal rent and utilities. Funds collected in excess of housing costs may be directed to Lou's other urgent family or business expenses. In the immediate future, we are working to identify avenues of reopening Lou’s LGMA, and will provide updates regarding fundraising for that need as details arise.
Lou has engaged the Arroyo Law Firm, and fundraising efforts for his legal fees are ongoing. Please continue to contribute to the Rally for Uncle Lou’s Legal Support. This Go Fund Me, titled Support Fund for Uncle Lou, has been established specifically to fundraise for Lou’s personal bills while he navigates this legal burden.
The beneficiary of this fundraiser is Lou's daughter, Destiney. This agreement has been explicitly approved by Lou.
Meet the organizers of this campaign:
- Hi, I'm Moriah. I'm a creative organizer, arts administrator, and, most importantly, one of hundreds of Lou’s friends who love him dearly.
- My name is Kit Dee, a musician who is entirely indebted to Lou, his stage that platformed me and all the encouraging words along the way.
- I’m MacKenzie, longtime patron and supporter of Uncle Lou’s, and a fellow Orlando organizer that would like to urge the continued support of Lou as he finds his way back to us.
This specific fund is also being supported through the proceeds from the ‘Born to Lou’s’ benefit shirts designed by Elly and printed by the Space Station Studio; the forthcoming Uncle Lou 4evr compilation tape organised by Kit and produced by Godless America Records; benefit concerts organized by MOX!E Booking; as well as other initiatives hosted by members of the creative community fostered by Uncle Lou.
The goal for this Go Fund Me has been set at $18,300 gross, aiming for $17,700 net after Go Fund Me transaction fee deduction of (2.9% + $0.30) per donation. Go Fund Me will automatically increase the goal displayed on this campaign as funds are raised. This goal represents the total cost for Lou’s rent, utilities, and other housing upkeep needs for a six month period. Though we hope that Lou will return sooner, this disruption to his life will continue to warrant our support in any scenario.
Here is the goal breakdown:
Monthly rent: $2700 x 6 = $16,200
Monthly electric bill: $200 x 6 = $1200
Monthly maintenance: $50 x 6 = $300
Total need: $17,700
Please consider donating to this Go Fund Me and sharing widely. Every donation, share, and message of support means a lot and helps ensure that Uncle Lou’s LGMA remains a safe and vibrant space for everyone, with our dear friend Lou back at the center of it.
Lastly, a message from Lou to all of you:
“Thank you and everyone out there. I know you all love me and I love you the same. I will do the best I can when I return for my community. I have good faith.”
Cover photos by Jim Leatherman, secondary photo Sabra Starr.