Bullying is a problem that affects countless people of all ages, religious beliefs, sexual orientations and races. Join a group of talented musicians as they band together in an effort to celebrate diversity and hope. Motif presents the "It Gets Better" benefit concert on behalf of the Trevor Project.
The Trevor Project is a non-profit organization that provides crisis intervention to LGBT and questioning youth to prevent suicide. They are partners with the It Gets Better Project, a collection of videos that inspire LGBT youth to get through their current difficulties with the promise of a brighter future ahead.
Both of these organizations hold a set of values that match closely to those of Motif: acceptance, commitment and innovation. Together, this diverse group of singers expresses their own difficulties and triumphs through song. By doing so, they illustrate the need for acceptance on an even broader scale.
"There is so much diversity in our troupe," says co-founder Eric Swanson. "We aren't a huge group, but within us there is a variety of religions, cultures, ethnic backgrounds, sexual orientations, occupations, and world views. I think that speaks to our mission statement in the way we honor the perspective of each audience member and performer. Wherever we perform, we respect the differences of everyone in that space."
Even as musicians, Motif strives to eliminate the discrimination that happens within the industry and create a home where emerging artists can grow.
"There was too much local talent that wasn't being showcased," says co-founder Gerianne Ditto. "There aren't many opportunities in Michigan; many people move away to get things off the ground. Motif is an opportunity to give the community something it's lacking and broaden people's horizons of the music world – and the world in general."
Come out to support the musicians and their message at 7 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Birmingham Unitarian Church (38651 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills). Tickets will be sold at the door for $15. Proceeds benefit the Trevor Project.
To learn more about the Trevor Project, visit http://www.thetrevorproject.org. To learn more about Motif, visit http://www.musicofmotif.com.
Birmingham church hosts 'It Gets Better' benefit concert
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