Music fest in Bradenton to raise money for suicide awareness and prevention

The upcoming Speak Your Truth Music Fest in Bradenton is designed to raise funds and awareness for suicide prevention, featuring a lineup of top national artists. Scheduled for Saturday at Bradenton Motor Works Brewery, the festival is the vision of Beth Vandal, the lead singer of the punk rock band A New Violet, who was inspired to organize the event following the tragic loss of a friend to suicide. Vandal shared her personal experience, emphasizing the long-lasting effects of such tragedies and the confusion they often bring regarding where to seek help. Co-sponsoring the event is the Southwest Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), which has been committed to raising awareness in the community since 2019. Cheyenne Williams, co-chair of AFSP, noted the transformative impact of participating in suicide awareness events.

The festival not only aims to provide entertainment but also serves as a crucial platform for discussion and support regarding mental health issues. Attendees can purchase tickets through the festival's official website. The event represents a significant local effort to address an important societal issue, fostering community support and understanding.