When Brandi Carlile announced her “Human Tour” dates, with Minneapolis, Minnesota slotted for February 21, 2026, she didn’t know she would be arriving in the state amid an aggressive — and often illegal — United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation.
But, with her pre-scheduled date on the calendar, she made it a priority to support Minnesotans.
For the Saturday evening show, she offered digital streaming access, with all proceeds of the stream being donated to The Advocates For Human Rights, a nonprofit in Minneapolis that provides legal aid to local residents seeking asylum and detained by ICE.
She renamed the show: “Be Human: A Concert for Minneapolis.”
Brandi Carlile and Singing Resistance perform on stage at the Target Center. Photo by Skyler Barberio for Brandi Carlile
“Last night was something I’ll never forget,” Carlile shared on Instagram the day after the show.
“Minnesota is so deeply inspiring to me and the whole country. I can’t believe I got to sing for you and WITH you last night. So many people came together to celebrate your strength and conviction.”
In addition to raising over $600,000 for the nonprofit through her own Looking Out Foundation, Carlile invited local activist group Singing Resistance on stage to perform their now-viral protest anthem: “It’s Okay To Change Your Mind.”
The group has been gathering in the thousands through the streets of Minneapolis, singing short tunes that encourage defection among ICE agents, fortify community bonds, and grieve the losses of community members like Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
In the Target Center, as Carlile deferred to Singing Resistance leader Annie Schlaefer to teach the audience, 15,000 people joined in song calling for change.
“We made a joyful and powerful noise! Extra special thanks to Singing Resistance Twin Cities and songwriter Annie Schlaefer for their incredible voices, their leadership, and the song that meets the moment,” Carlile reflected.
“‘It’s ok to change your mind,’” she quoted the song. “‘You can join us here anytime.’ We hope you know how loved you are, Minnesota!”
Singing Resistance is planning a nationwide “day of action” on February 28 and March 1, inviting groups across the country to take to the streets in song.
“Singing with Brandi Carlile was awesome, but what we’re really about is taking it to the streets,” the group shared on social media.
“We sing to protect and care for our communities in the face of rising authoritarianism.”
Those interested in joining a local Singing Resistance action can find a group in an online database.
Carlile’s “Be Human: A Concert For Minneapolis” is available to purchase and watch via Veeps for $29.99 until 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on February 23, 2026. All proceeds will be donated.
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Header image by Skyler Barberio for Brandi Carlile
