Thank you for the article on Girl Named Tom’s ill-fated [postponed] concerts at the Kennedy Center in Washington (April). As a longtime fan and kindred spirit, I was surprised and disappointed by their concert announcement, given the president’s hostile takeover of the center. Though I knew of their ambivalence and struggle through the storm of disapproval, I was heartened by their courage to go forward in the service of peace and justice for all. Their transparency through this article is commendable — even more, their commitment to learn from this experience and do whatever they can to stem the tides of hubris and hatred, cruelty and cynicism. 

Bruce A. Greer, Mystic, Conn.

I first heard the Liechty siblings sing at First Mennonite Church of San Francisco in 2019 and have followed their music ever since. I am one who posted that I hoped they wouldn’t play at the (former) Kennedy Center because I fear that money speaks louder than most other forms of communication. I’m sad that this was so tough on them. But I appreciate their thoughts, their values and that they wrestled with how to speak/sing peace to power.

Tiffany Friesen Ylarregui

Facebook comment

I love GNT’s music and commitment to peace and justice. I was opposed to their performing at the Kennedy Center, but everything happens for a reason. They’ll have their moment with a renowned orchestra in a venue where their message will be appreciated. Blessings to them!

Judi Janzen, Facebook comment