South of the City
On July 19th, local musicians, artists, and their fans gathered at the Brentwood Contemporary Music Center for a night of music and human trafficking awareness! South of the City, put together by End Slavery Tennessee’s friend and hero Andrew Yontz, was a benefit concert for our organization with the purpose of bringing together local talent to help raise awareness and funds to fight the sex trafficking taking place in Nashville.
While the audience’s ears were filled with moving song lyrics and harmonies, they were also given the opportunity to take part in live art – taking trash and scraps of unused paper, writing inspiring messages, prayers, and quotes for human trafficking survivors on them, and then pasting them to a canvas. The piece was then given to ESTN to hang in our office for every girl and survivor who passes through our halls to read. Another art piece was also created live by Christi Getzen Schroader throughout the entire event. The piece was entitled "We Are Not Finished." More of Christi's work can be found at her website, Light Beneath. Other artistic talent for the event included the musicians of Jorand Minton, Cammie York, Flying Colours, and Old Friend.
Andrew kept the event hopping with raffle prizes, an upbeat atmosphere, and excitement! “I hope everyone who attends this event will feel equipped and inspired to find a cause in their life they are passionate about and do something about it through their gifts and talents,” said Andrew.
Derri Smith also spoke during the session and explained the mission of End Slavery Tennessee She shared the story of one of our survivors who is ready to have a voice!
Extra thanks to Andrew for all the work he did for this event, all the musical and artistic talent that preformed, and the supportive individuals who made the night a grand success!