Sing Out Strong

Sweet Honey in the Rock has been singing about civil rights for more than 30 years. The female septet's concert tonight is no different. "We're about standing up and exercising your right as an American citizen to raise your voice, speak out, and call out things you feel are both right and wrong," says co-founder Carol Maillard. "Use the tools that were given to you by the people who lived and died for what this country has become."

The Washington D.C. group spreads the message at tonight's 15th anniversary party for A Cultural Exchange, which teaches urban kids about their heritage. To reach out to teens, the group mixes a repertoire of reggae, jazz, and spirituals with African and Caribbean dancing and drumming. But Maillard points out that the mission is spiritual, not political. "There's no one on this planet who's unworthy," she says. "Find a way to always give your best, and don't let anyone tell you who you are. Uplift yourself and your community, and move forward."
Sat., Sept. 30, 7:30 p.m.