Feminist Artists Team Up with Drug Policy Reform Movement at Sikkema Jenkins & Co

On May 17th Sikkema Jenkins & Co. will host re:FORM , an art auction and cocktail party to benefit the Drug Policy Alliance. Few public policies have undermined fundamental civil rights and liberties, social justice and public health for so long and to such an extent as the drug war. “Gender and racial inequities bound by destructive laws and social injustices must be outdated,” says Elizabeth Sackler. “The Drug Policy’s re-FORM art auction will raise awareness and support opportunities for change. Feminist Art has always contributed to the political discourse about the oppressed and suppressed — we now join in solidarity with DPA for all voices to be heard.”

The U.S. now has the highest incarceration rate in the world–one American adult out of every 100 is currently behind bars. The United States makes up less than 5 percent of the world’s population but close to 25 percent of the world’s incarcerated population. More than half a million people are behind bars tonight for nothing more than a drug law violation. More than 750,000 Americans were arrested last year for simple marijuana possession. The drug war even targets sick and dying Americans, thousands of whom are regularly denied access to medical marijuana, a medication with proven medical benefits for the treatment of a wide range of serious illnesses. This art auction benefit is inspired by past artists who have used art as a vehicle for social change. It is our hope that this show will enlighten others to join us in our attempt to stop the madness of the war on drugs.

What: An art auction and cocktail benefit at Sikkema Jenkins & Co. 530 West 22nd Street NYC

When: Monday, May 17, 6-9 p.m.

Who: Works donated by established and emerging artists, including Carrie Mae Weems, Carolee Schneeman, Faith Ringgold, Kara Walker, Fred Tomaselli, Donald Baechler and many more.

For more information please visit: http://www.drugpolicy.org/auction