Final weekend, in honor of the foundational Riot Grrrl band, Olympia’s Mayor Dantae Payne declared August twenty third Bikini Kill Day.
The town’s proclamation applauds Bikini Kill’s music and activism. “The band’s affect extends far past their music, symbolizing resistance, empowerment, and the combat for gender equality,” it reads. The proclamation acknowledges that through the youth of the Riot Grrrl motion, town failed to acknowledge the revolutionary energy behind the music and the artists creating it. In gratitude, Bikini Kill will now have their legacies formally preserved in Washington state historical past for like… ever.
In a day ceremony on the primary day of South Sound Block Celebration, Bikini Kill was offered with a key to town to memorialize our new favourite vacation. Shaped in Olympia, the feminist punk band has been making Washington state considerably extra badass since 1990. Bikini Kill’s frontwoman Kathleen Hanna (a girl whose energy I each concern and admire) has been on the helm of the Riot Grrrl motion for many years.
The start of the competition’s third yr was a soggy one, however in true Pacific Northwest style, the present would go on. Regardless of incessant rain, followers piled collectively on the Port in Downtown Olympia. A sea of raincoats, plastic ponchos, and soaked Converse started to swell earlier than Bikini Kill hit the stage for Friday night time’s headlining slot. Attendees throughout generations appeared—reflecting Bikini Kill’s dedication to taking part in solely all-ages live shows. (Hanna warns dad and mom earlier than reveals that there will likely be “swears” through the set).
Previous to Bikini Kill, Governor Jay Inslee took the stage to talk out towards Initiative 2117, which might prohibit state companies from implementing cap and commerce packages, and repeal the 2021 Washington Local weather Dedication Act. He was backed by activists who held indicators and cheered in assurance. The gang obtained Inslee’s speech positively and he even did a (very dad-like) music and dance in response. (Jay, we all know you’re retiring, however should you ever desire a profession in music—let’s discuss).
After Inslee’s opening set—I imply speech—manufacturing crew mopped the stage (which by that time had collected standing water). A number of buckets later, the group bellowed as Bikini Kill entered. Earlier than kicking off with “New Radio,” Hanna thanked followers for attending regardless of stormy situations and apologized for what could be a much less “jumpy” set as a result of moist stage. (Kathleen, please by no means apologize, WE MUST PRESERVE YOU).
Throughout Bikini Kill’s second music, “This Is Not A Check,” the entrance barricade started to topple as followers pushed ahead. The stoke might completely not be contained because the picture pit was abruptly cleared and safety rushed to implement the fence. The Bikini Infants calmed themselves sufficient for everybody to have time, and by music 4 (“I Hate Hazard”), the crowdsurfing commenced.
Bikini Kill’s South Sound Block Celebration set was fiercely female, joyously chaotic, and communally cathartic. It was additionally, accurately, political. Hanna urged attendees to “preserve complaining,” and to by no means develop complacent within the face of injustice. The band additionally expressed momentous gratitude for Olympia, their followers, and the booming Riot Grrrl motion they collectively birthed. Begin getting ready your Bikini Kill Day 2025 want lists now and remember to keep offended… I hear Hanna will go away fossil gasoline in your fight boot should you don’t.
Setlist:
New Radio
This Is Not a Check
Jigsaw Youth
I Hate Hazard
In Accordance to Pure Regulation
Carnival
Bloody Ice Cream
Feels Blind
Hamster Child
Demi Rep
Alien She
R.I.P.
For Solely
Reject All American
Capri Pants
Suck My Left One
Insurgent Lady
Finale
Encore: Double Dare Ya
