The Lost Lands subreddit stirred an intense debate when an OP announced plans to wear perler bead kandi featuring overt political slogans like “FUCK ICE” at Electric Forest and other festivals. The discussion split the community on whether explicit political messages belong on the rave floor—long viewed as a cultural escape from outside conflicts.
Roots of Political Expression in Rave Culture
Rave culture historically emerged from marginalized and underground communities—Black and queer scenes in Chicago among them—and has always contained strands of political resistance. The rave ethos values unity, inclusion, and opposition to oppressive systems, a tradition spanning decades from underground warehouse parties to large festivals.
Festival Policies and Community Norms
Electric Forest, a focal point for this discussion, maintains policies to foster a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015, they banned culturally inappropriate items like American Indian headdresses, emphasizing that any words or symbols threatening harm aren’t allowed. Their stance hints at a delicate balance between expression and respect for all attendees.
Diverging Views Among Fans
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Pro-Expression Group: Many argue that raving itself is political and that kandi with strong messages reflects the culture’s roots and necessary activism. They encourage visible, courageous statements opposing systemic oppression.
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Vibe-Preservation Group: Others advocate for keeping the dance floor a politically neutral safe space to fully immerse in music and unity, avoiding divisive or explicitly partisan signage, especially direct mentions of figures like Trump.
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Concerned Moderates: Some users warned of confrontations sparked by political apparel and expressed interest in preserving peace onsite without sacrificing general principles of anti-authoritarianism.
What This Means Moving Forward
The conversation within Lost Lands mirrors a broader festival scene tension: How much politics can and should coexist with party vibes and communal safe spaces? This evolving debate reflects the dual desires to hold space for necessary protest while preserving the inclusive joy that brings people together on the dance floor.
As festivals continue to grow and diversify, expect these conversations to deepen, shaping what raving looks like in a politically charged world.
Source: r/LostLandsMusicFest
