I wanted to learn some more and help raise awareness for both the benefit show and the charity so I suggested to Nate the idea of maybe doing another little interview. Fortunately Nate thought it was a great idea and agreed to have this discussion.
NATE: Well, in this time of extreme budget cuts that effect the welfare of the most needy in this state the Horizions Initiative aims to bridge the gap left by the state.
NICOLA: ...and cater more for the children affected by this?
NATE: Thats right, the largest growing segment of the homeless population is children.
NICOLA: Yeah, they have to grow up with that and accept it as a way of life so anything that can instill some sense of what it's like for them to have a normal childhood will help their growth and tolerance of this situation?
NATE: I think the goal here is more about growth. I don't think anything about this situation should be tolerated.
NICOLA: Tolerance was the wrong word to use...my bad...but with growth comes a way of dealing with it...
NATE: ...hopefully a way out of dealing with it or the potential for moving on to a place of "normalcy".
NICOLA: Next question; it's understandable why you would want to help, and this is a situation that is unfortunately commonplace to so many families, why did you decide to act in the way you have?
NATE: I have always felt that anything you do in life is political. To choose not to be political is a political act. Bands who say they aren't political are usually the most politically charged unintentionally. Often sexist, racist, classist etc. I think people should except that they can and should try to make a difference in their communities. Our community of friends make music so it seemed like a no-brainer to get people together to do what they love for a good cause.
NICOLA: ...and it's that simple...if you're in a position to help then you help!
NATE: We tried to do that when I was in The Bosstones with the ARA or Safe and Sound or Rock for Choice, etc. Yeah I think it is that simple...
NICOLA: I remember that...
NICOLA: You've been quoted as saying; "We believe social action should begin on a local level. We see this as an opportunity to use the talents of local musicians to make a difference in their community" so do you hope that others not only support this cause but also see what they can do in their own community?
NATE: I would hope that people feel like they should help in their own communities. It just isn't that hard to care.
NICOLA: ...exactly...because you never know what is going to happen...it could be any one of us in a tough situation...
NATE: Thats true but I don't think it should be that hard for people to see that when people are homeless it is "us" in that situation already.
NICOLA: ...and if you can't help out in your own community then something is wrong.
NATE: Thats right. Having a safe home just seems like such a basic right to me yet it isn't.
NICOLA: ...when there are so many empty houses and spaces you'd think they'd put those to good use, something that simple would make a difference?
NATE: Yeah. Its more that the system had a big problem "rewarding" homelessness, so it makes it as hard as it can to get out of it.
NICOLA: Your hopes are to raise money for Community Children's Centers and Playspace Programs, to bring stimulation and personal growth to children through social interaction, education and the simple things that all kids usually do...so on a personal level it's not just about you and the other musicians donating your time, support and money...it's about shaping the future of these children and their quality of life. This is a great thing you're doing, what are your feelings about such a cause and what would you advise others to do to help?
NICOLA: ...sorry, that was so longwinded!
NATE: Well people can go on to the links we provide and make a donation if they can afford it.
NICOLA: Last question; Hopefully the benefit show will be a success, do you hope that all those attending will go home after the show with an understanding of the severity of the way children are affected by homelessness, as it's about raising awareness as well as money?
NATE: It is about raising awareness. I hope that people come to the show and have a good time and hopefully think about the cause that they are supporting by showing up. At a time when our world is so focused on international issues I think it is important to remember that we all have pressing issues of equal importance in our own back yards.
NICOLA: Excellent answer...thank you.
NATE: Pleasure!
NICOLA: I hope the show goes well and everyone has a good time...I wish I could be there, but I'll be there in spirit...
NATE: Thank you.
