DAWA Highlights BIPOC Artists With Third Annual Unity Showcase

Vision: 8291, a collaboration between DAWA (Diversity Awareness and Wellness in Action) and South by Southwest, presents its third annual Unity music showcase.

Austin-based organization DAWA provides direct emergency funding to BIPOC creatives, along with other useful resources including a no-cost content studio and recording equipment available for use. The showcase exclusively highlights local BIPOC talent and raises money for BIPOC grassroots organizations. Last year, Vision:8291’s showcase raised over $20,000.

Set for March 12 at 7pm at Stubb’s, the groove-driven night highlights acts like synth-pop group Luna Luna and dynamic soul duo Us (Uncle Roy & Spice of Sir Woman). The event will also include Maya Sampleton’s lush vocals, Stephy Lee’s rhythmic, upbeat radiance, and the Houston-launched hip-hop stylings of JahleelFaReal.

Formerly Austin-based Tony22 adds to the night’s vibrant lineup. On his latest project divine order, the former YouTuber blends lo-fi waves with trap beats to fashion an electronic, textured dreamscape. Also set to stun is Latin funk-infused fever dream Nemegata. A cornucopia of bullerengue, cumbia, and time-traveled psychedelia, the trio’s 2023 endeavor Voces swells with experimental, unabridged magnetism.

The event will be free and open to the public. RSVP here. The DAWA showcase adds to an array of free community programming announced by SXSW last week, including a performance from Riders Against the Storm (featuring DAWA founder Jonathan “Chaka” Mahone).