Not Pussying Out
Band finds new home for show after initial controversy
By Bigoa Machar, Publishing Editor
After public outcry over their band name, Portland-based Black Pussy has found a new home for their Calgary show. Originally scheduled to play at the Palomino, the band will now rock out at Distortion on September 17.
With disagreement of their naming reaching the ranks of national news, Distortion has made it very clear that music is still the most important thing when it comes to the bands they host.
“We also want to recognize that art and music is an opportunity to express oneself, allow for conversation, and provide a mode for coping in this challenging world,” says Distortion in a written statement on their Facebook page. “We want to provide a safe and inclusive space for people of all backgrounds to have an opportunity to enjoy art, music, and express themselves in a positive way.”
In an interview with Seattle Weekly, Dustin Hill, the band’s frontman, says freaking out over things like a band name is a negative part of today’s culture and hopes his music, amongst other things, can change that.
“We also want to recognize that art and music is an opportunity to express oneself, allow for conversation, and provide a mode for coping in this challenging world. We want to provide a safe and inclusive space for people of all backgrounds to have an opportunity to enjoy art, music, and express themselves in a positive way.”
From being called pathetic to even “Fuckboy” by some media outlets, Distortion wants to remind people that what they are doing extends the reach of artistic expression through Black Pussy’s name and their music.
“We want each individual to feel heard and respected, and urge discussion to be accepting, welcoming and inclusive. We also want to be mindful that some individuals may feel triggered or angered by the name, and we want to respect you,” Distortion continues on in their statement. “We also want to be mindful that some individuals enjoy this music and feel that the band name is another example of art and freedom of expression. We want to respect all sides to this conversation, and hope that we can all come together as a broader community, in an effort to reduce sexism, racism, and “othering”, and have a safe community, together.”
