I am an ardent admirer of the storied Jerry Day event, a long-standing tradition that celebrates the life and music of Jerry Garcia. Over the years, Jerry Day has become symbolic of inclusion and unity, a characteristic embodied by Garcia himself, who hired two backing female vocalists while alive. In the decades that followed, this tradition continued with either Melvin Seals and the JGB band or Stu Allen and the Mars Hotel band featuring feminine voices in their lineup. But the recent events have been alarming.

In the unprecedented scenario that followed COVID-19, Melvin Seals eliminated his female singers, and  Stu Allen invited a female guest vocalist to sit in on some of set in 2022. This event does not seem to stand up to the principles it was founded on. We need to remember that the Grateful Dead, the legendary band in which Garcia played, have shown gender inclusivity with member Donna Godchaux. The question begs itself, why shouldn't we adhere to the same principles?

As we look forward to the Jerry Day event for 2024 and future years, it's imperative that we promote a more balanced representation of gender, particularly on the bands' frontlines. This is more than just a validation for female artists and their impactful contribution to music; it represents the progressive vision that Jerry Garcia stood for, alongside music that knows no gender, no boundaries, and no discrimination.

Join us in urging band leaders to hire women to play on the frontline. Let's uphold the Jerry Day tradition of harmony and inclusivity! Please sign this petition and stand up for gender equality in music.