Washington, D.C. band Ekko Astral have curated a new two-day festival of "music and arts for trans liberty," taking place 30–31 May at D.C. venues Black Cat and DC9.

Home Is Where, Speedy Ortiz, Ted Leo, and Um, Jennifer? are among the 30 artists and DJs confirmed so far for the Liberation Weekend, as well as Ekko Astral themselves and "two secret special guests." The second day of the festival will also host a TRANSA showcase featuring L'Rain, Bartees Strange, and Asher White, all of whom featured on Red Hot Org's enormous TRANSA compilation last year, plus a showcase for local D.C. artists.

Liberation Weekend is the co-creation of Ekko Astral and trans rights advocacy collective Gender Liberation Movement, and all profits from the event will be used to support the collective's future activities, including "rallies, demonstrations, and direct actions in protest of anti-trans policymaking and business activity."

In a statement shared to Instagram, Ekko Astral's Jael Holzman wrote:

"The reason we're putting this event on is simple: artists of all genders and genres should stand in vocal support of the trans community. If you stand for freedom of expression, you support trans rights. If you believe in loving your neighbor, you support trans rights. Music is humanity's most universal language – and we need our best artists to come together in support of our community now before it's too late."

Holzman's bandmate Miri Tyler adds:

"As the old world dies and we struggle to rebirth it, there has never been a more crucial time to assemble in the name of liberation. Liberation from the shackles of small minded-ness, from the cages of wage slavery, and from the threat of real life violence. Freedom is an inherent human right, and until all people can taste it, it's not real for anyone. Let's prove the strength of our community and get there together."

Tickets for the event are on sale now.