Joey Burns was in town for a headlining gig with Calexico at The Van Buren this year when he approached promoter Charlie Levy with a question.

“What can we do,” he asked, “to get the people in Arizona involved and engaged in the elections that are coming in November?”

The two had previously worked together on Go Vote 2008, an event at the Rialto Theatre in Tucson, where Calexico are based, on behalf of U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords.

“Our band has always helped out with important local issues,” Burns explains. “And getting out the vote has always been a focal point. Now more than ever.”

Go Vote 2018 finds Calexico sharing a bill with the Gin Blossoms, Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra and Mariachi Pasion at an event that also features an appearance by Giffords and astronaut Mark Kelly, her husband. Chris Bianco will provide the pizza.

“Our band wanted to do something in Arizona together with our longtime friends Gabby Giffords and Mark Kelly to spread the word about important issues like gun violence awareness and gun control,” Burns says, “as well as getting people excited to help register others to vote.”

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The more people exercise their right to vote and get involved in politics, he says, “the more we will shape our future rather than allowing others to decide it for us. It’s our right as citizens to vote. And as artists, if we can help inspire others to volunteer and vote, then I’m up for the task. Bringing creativity and energy to voting is something I’d like to do.”

This midterm election, Burns continues, is especially important.

“I would like to see a higher voter turnout and see more civil discussions about key issues,” he says. “It feels like we’ve been heading towards this age of extremes and so I’m interested in finding ways to bring people together. Maybe music can be part of that bridge.”

To those who only vote when there’s a president to choose, Burns says, “We need you now more than ever,” adding, “I like to remind people that every voice matters and every vote counts.”

All proceeds benefit the non-profit organization Giffords: Courage to Fight Gun Violence, which also presents the show.

Giffords, who survived an assassination attempt in 2011, and Kelly, responding to questions by email, explained the importance of the event.

"A democracy only works if its citizenry engages,” they wrote. “Voting is our singular and powerful chance to impact how our government functions and what it prioritizes. As Americans, there is no greater responsibility than showing up on Election Day. And yes, this election is paramount to others. If you’re unhappy with the direction we’re headed, you can’t expect it to change unless you participate.”

The couple then added, "We’re excited to join many inspiring Arizona candidates on the campaign trail over the next few weeks and to take the stage with our friends Joey, John and the whole Calexico crew for a great election eve rally."

Jesse Valenzuela of Gin Blossoms says he considers it an honor to be asked to take part in this event.

"We’re proud to stand with Gabby Giffords and help bring awareness to her Courage to Fight Gun Violence organization,especially considering the tragic events of the last week," he says. "Our country has never been so polarized and the process of voting is a much-needed opportunity for the people to come together."

Go Vote 2018

What: A fundraiser featuring Calexico, the Gin Blossoms, Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra and Mariachi Pasion.

When: 8:15 p.m. Monday, Nov. 5.

Where: The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St., Phoenix.

Admission: $15.

Details: 866-468-3399, thevanburenphx.com.

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