Willowake show highlights Makeout Music’s month long fundraiser for immigrant rights

Vocalist and guitarist of indie-alternative band Willowake, Jr. Polanco is channeling fear and frustration into action amid a rise in ICE raids. “It’s really scary to see everyone be in fear right now. The thought of just going to a store is a huge thought process to think about, it’s so unfortunate and so disappointing. No one should be living in fear like this,” said Polanco.

Polanco and his bandmates,  Gavin Alvarado on bass and Dax Corcoron on drums, will perform June 21 at Makeout Music. Tickets are $15 each and all proceeds will go to the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles (CHIRLA). The line-up also includes artists Gramma, What You Once Were and Concave. 

“When everything started happening there was talks with the other two guys and we were wondering how we can help,” Polanco said,. “We have music coming out and a platform, so we wanted to do something.” 

Polanco's ultimate goal is to make people feel comfortable by creating a safe space through this show to help support their community.

“We wanna make an impact any way we can,” Polanco said.

Makeout Music, based in Boyle Heights, is a community oriented venue that has fostered an environment that allows artists to not only play live shows, but help fund organizations that are constantly pushing towards immigrant rights.  

Co-owners Tim Chin and Geoff Bywater previously hosted donation drop-offs at Makeout Music during wildfire relief efforts and are continuing to give back to the community by raising funds for CHIRLA at every event throughout June. 

“CHIRLA is kind of the main one we’re going to be working with,” Chin said. “One of our artists that we work with kind of jump started us into activating all of our events this month. I know there are several, CHIRLA was the first one mentioned when we asked people about having funds going to reputable charities,” Chin said. 

They also donated to other locations in Boyle Heights such as Raices Con Voz and No Us Without You LA. 

“We’ve been in Boyle Heights for the past six years, and something that we care about is the community here,” Bywater said. 

Bywater and Chin hope to continue raising awareness and creating a welcoming space that brings people together.

“Music was curated by immigrants, it’s just us paying back to art. Art is the expression of what is going on at times and to spread awareness of these cultural historical events,” Bywater said,“There wouldn’t be art without any of that. We’re just using our own space as a blank canvas for people to express that and acknowledge information about everything that’s going on.” 

Although many may feel overwhelmed and unable to help their community in various circumstances, Chin wanted to give a thoughtful reminder for readers: “Be kind to your neighbors and be kind to yourself. There’s a lot of things outside of our control, and sometimes people will spiral into despair. One way we can kind of move forward is to worry about the things that you can control and be active in that role.” 

There are many ways to be active and help your community, whether it’s attending events, donating firsthand or simply continuing to spread awareness. 

“If people are unable to attend protests or unfortunately feel unsafe to go to this show people should find alternative ways to help out rather than doing nothing. Even if people just share information with each other. There’s this kind of stigma between sharing posts on Instagram. Social media is such a huge part of everyone’s lives and how we’re getting information right now. Anyone can continue to share awareness, get out and volunteer, just get out and do anything,” Polanco said.