On February 6, Jim Graham, D.C. Councilmember, introduced the “Protection and Safety Act of Underage Persons Amendment Act of 2007″ that will restrict all age shows in the D.C. area. An area synonymous with Ian Mackaye, Dischord Records, Straight Edge, Fugazi,and all age punk shows.
Graham was inspired to propose this bill upon the death of a 17 year old at a Go-Go club on January 20. A stray bullet killed the teenager. Read more about the incident here.
On January 25, Graham held a seven hour roundtable discussion so that D.C. citizens and others affected by the proposed legislation could voice their concerns and opinions. One of the people present at the meeting was D.C. punk’s figurehead, Ian Mackaye. Below is a youtube clip of Mackaye insisting on the insanity of the bill and how “this legislation would wipe out something so inspirational for so many people.”
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8TFNXUsr7gM]
In the beginning of the clip Mackaye speaks the numerous passionate people against the legislation that were present at the meeting, however, on Graham’s website the roundtable discussion is perceived in a different light. The discussion was called “sucessful”. Nothing was covered as to the opposition to the bill on his website, only the stubborn ideas he already had before the roundtable discussion was cited. Read more about the “success” here
No news as of when the public will know whether or the bill will be accepted as law. When more information becomes available I’ll make a follow up post.
Jim Graham’s Official Website
Tags: Ian Mackaye, Washington D.C. by Matthew
No Comments »
